Aggression in horses.

The research article discusses the physiological aspects and causes of aggression in horses. The natural aggression shown by horses in regards to their food, reproduction, protection of their young, and response to danger is explored. The influence of the environment, human interaction, and previous experiences on a horse’s aggression is also discussed.

Understanding Physiological Aggression

• The article clarifies that aggression in horses is often physiological in nature and is triggered by needs like food and reproduction. Anecdotally, horses are known to show a rapid response to how they are fed, either becoming lively and animated or docile with underfeeding.
• Stallions showcasing vigour when mating with mares, and mares showing protective aggression towards their young are explained as common, physiological behaviours. Protective aggression is especially vital for the survival of any animal, especially when facing a potential threat.
• There is a strange behavioural phenomenon mentioned where mares go into a rage upon seeing their reflections in water, often to a degree where they neglect eating or drinking. However, this phenomenon is described as not being frequently observed.

Dissecting Aggressive Behaviours

• Aggressive behaviour in horses also does not always signify hostility. The paper identifies a need to distinguish between natural aggression and vice. The latter is generally attributed to mistreatment by humans, and it is suggested that a horse’s behaviour often mirrors the temperament of its owner.
• Aggression could be caused by a horse’s discomfort or unease in a particular environment. Horses originally lived in wide open spaces, so stables or enclosed spaces may seem unnatural and therefore be frightening to them.

The Impact of Training and Territory

• Furthermore, horses are extremely sensitive to humans and can be trained, unlike cattle, who can only be conditioned to respond to their basic needs.
• The concept of territory is central to animal behaviour and is primarily linked to the preservation of food supplies and regulation of reproductive habits. The significance of territory can be observed in semi-wild herds of hill ponies, where each herd occupies a specific region under the control of its own stallion. Any intrusion by outsiders is aggressively countered, particularly by older mares in the herd.

In conclusion, this article provides an insightful view of aggression in horses, its physiological aspects, potential triggers, and the influential factors that shape these behaviours. The authors caution against judging this behavior by human standards and emphasize the importance of considering the natural instincts, physical environment, and historical evolution of these impressive creatures.