A novel approach to systematically compare behavioural patterns between and within groups of horses
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
2014 |
Authors: |
Andrea D. Ellis, Melissa Stephenson, Michaela Preece, Pat Harris |
Publication/Journal: |
Applied Animal Behaviour Science |
Keywords: |
calm, comparative behaviour, equine, excitable, heart rates, salivary cortisol, temperament |
ISBN: |
0168-1591 |
Abstract:
This study piloted a multiple aspect approach to assess differences or changes in equine behaviour, using physiological (heart rates – HR, salivary cortisol – SC) and behavioural measures in various routine (feed-time, riding, turning out) and test situations (novel situation tests NS: 2× reactivity and 2× handling, Cross-over design). In order to evaluate if this approach could identify different behavioural patterns, two distinct groups of riding school horses (selected by experienced equine professionals) were observed repeatedly over 6 weeks: 6 excitable/nervous horses (EX: Age: mean = 14 ± 3.4, 8–18 yrs, BW 677 ± 48 kg, Body Condition [BC] = 4.6 ± 0.4) and 6 calm, quiet horses (CA: Age: mean = 16 ± 2.5, 12–18 yrs, BW 645 ± 35, BC 5.1 ± 0.4).