Photo from archive.org
Abstract In the present study, we hypothesise that persistent avoidance of human would confirm de-domestication process in semi-feral horses. Fifty-three Konik polski horses (stable-born: SB, N1 = 27 and forest-born: FB, N2 = 26),… Click to show full abstract
Abstract In the present study, we hypothesise that persistent avoidance of human would confirm de-domestication process in semi-feral horses. Fifty-three Konik polski horses (stable-born: SB, N1 = 27 and forest-born: FB, N2 = 26), additionally handled for 5 or 15 days after weaning, were evaluated. Human (stationary, approaching and touching the foals when 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months old) and handling (approaching, leg-lifting, leading, and handling the foals when startled at 12 and 18 months old) tests were conducted. During handling test heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (RMSSD) were measured. Compared to FB foals, a greater number of SB foals approached (P The time to raise the fore legs was not different between groups at both tested ages, however FB foals slightly decreased their performance with time (P
Journal Title: Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Year Published: 2017
Link to full text (if available)
Share on Social Media: Sign Up to like & get
recommendations!