Wander Minnesota: State Fair, The Miracle of Birth
One of the Minnesota State Fair's newer attractions is the CHS Miracle of Birth Center. The original exhibit dates only back to 2001, and it moved to its current location in 2006.
The Fair reports that the Center is the most popular free attraction each year. And why not? Who doesn't love baby animals? There's no guarantee that you'll get to witness a live birth — there are no timetables for delivering the babies — there's a good chance that when you visit, you'll see some pretty adorable animals.
A baby calf rests up for a busy day, while nearby mama takes a rest from giving birth.
During the average State Fair year, nearly 200 animals are born in the center, which holds cows, sheep, goats and pigs.
The Center is staffed by veterinarians and FFA students, who keep close watch on these animals to make sure the births are safe.
While the pig above may look like it's in a trap, the equipment is really called a "farrowing stall." This stall gives the sow a place to rest comfortably while preventing her from inadvertently lying on and injuring the piglets before they're born.
Apparently goats start climbing at a very early age.
New to the Center this year is the Hen House. Two flocks of hens are on display in current hen-housing units, and if you're patient, you might get to see a hen lay an egg.
What else is happening in our state? Be sure to check out the 10 p.m. Sunday night WCCO newscasts, where you can learn more in the weekly segment, Finding Minnesota.