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Found in horse hay #610873

Asked January 19, 2020, 6:34 PM EST

After reading recently about hay that killed multiple horses in Wisconsin (though, it was blister bettles not a plant) I'm a little paranoid about what I'm feeding my horses and have been taking a closer look. We just rolled out a new round bale this afternoon and I noticed quite a bit of this orangish plant. It looks like maybe it had flowered? It's not very stocky - very slender stem. What is it? And if it is safe for horses to consume? The hay came from southeast Michigan, where we live. Thanks so much!

Washtenaw County Michigan

Expert Response

Would it be possible for you to include a photo of a pod up close by a ruler so we can see the relative size? Also, are there any leaves remaining that you can make out? If so could you send a close-up photo? 

You can either submit the photos through Ask an Expert here or email them to me directly at <personal data hidden> 

Of hand it looks like a legume, possibly a pea or a vetch, but we'd need a closer look. 
Erin Hill, PhD Replied January 22, 2020, 12:15 PM EST

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