Daddy, daddy cool: stallion-foal relationships in a socially-natural herd of Exmoor ponies.

The study focuses on the interaction between stallion (male horse) and their offspring (foals) within a semi-feral Exmoor pony herd. The researchers observed that the stallions not only tolerated but actively engaged with their foals, demonstrating a form of paternal care.

Research Aim

• The study aimed to investigate the nature of interactions between a harem stallion (the dominant male horse) and his offspring within the herd settings of Exmoor ponies.

Methodology

• Two herds of Exmoor ponies living under semi-feral conditions in two separate reserves within the Czech Republic were studied.
• Each herd consisted of a stallion, 14 mares (female horses), and their offspring.
• 12 foals (young horses) were part of one herd while the other had 10.
• The study happened over two consecutive breeding seasons (in 2016 and 2017).
• The behaviour of all group members was recorded, with a keen focus on the interactions between the stallion and his foals.

Key Findings

• The stallion received more friendly interactions, snapping, and playful behavior from foals compared to adult mares.
• Stallions were found to be more tolerant and more prone to active play with their offspring as compared to mares.
• There was no statistical difference in the sex of the foals in the stallion-foal interactions; however, male foals were more active than female foals in interacting with their father.
• The behavioural dynamics between adults and foals evolved over time.

Implications of the Study

• The stallion’s presence might be crucial for the physical and psychological development of the foals, particularly male foals.
• The findings hold significance for domestic horse management practices, where stallions are generally kept separately and are not provided opportunities to form natural groups.
• These insights could potentially contribute to improved welfare and development of domesticated horses.