Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Repeated behaviors, even if not part of a formal lesson, become habits. Horses are con-
stantly learning as a result of their handling and the environment.
Even though the modern horse is relatively safe from predators, his long history of
struggle for survival has resulted in a deeply embedded suspicion of anything unfamiliar.
Because of this, the horse is one of the few domestic animals that still retain the instincts
necessary to revert to a wild state. These instincts can make a horse awe inspiring and chal-
lenging at the same time.
GREGARIOUS
Gregarious animals are sociable and prefer to live and move in groups. If the domestic
horse has a choice, he will stand not alone but in close proximity to another horse, finding
safety and comfort in numbers. An entire band panicking from an imaginary beast, a group
huddling tightly against the wind or snow, and buddies participating in social rituals—all
of these are examples of a horse's social behavior. Horses seek the companionship of other
horses and are most content when they are with other horses, near other horses, or at least
can see other horses. For this reason, bands of horses turned out on large pastures will often
choose to congregate over the fence that separates them.
