Fun Facts: Horse Talk!

Today we’ll talk about a very interesting topic: communication between horses! How do horses talk to each other? Read these 7 fun facts and you will know the answer to this question. Enjoy reading!

1. Horses use their ears as a kind of antenna to show how they are feeling. If a horse has its ears pointed forward, it is curious or alert. Are its ears pointed backward? Then the horse may be unhappy about something or irritated.

2. A horse's facial expression also tells you something about how they’re feeling. They can make their eyes bigger to show fear or excitement, while a relaxed face and soft eyes often indicate they’re content.

3. Nostrils are not just for breathing! A horse's nostrils widen when they are excited. But if a horse is snorting, it is often nervous or irritated.

4. Head movements: a friendly and relaxed horse will often lower its head slightly, while an excited horse may hold its head high. Shaking the head can be a sign of irritation or discomfort.

5. The tail is not just for chasing away flies! A horse can tuck its tail tightly between its hind legs, which it may do when it is in pain or feels threatened from behind. The tail can move horizontally, vertically and in circles. A horizontal movement often occurs when the horse is bothered by flies. A vertical movement often occurs when the horse is angry, in which case it will strike its tail downwards several times. The circular movement occurs when the horse is dissatisfied or exerting itself.

6. Body language! Just like with humans, the body language of horses speaks volumes. A relaxed horse will relax its muscles, while a tense horse may tense its body.

7. Horses are naturally herd animals, so they also communicate through small signs. Examples include licking, nibbling and gentle biting to confirm friendships and reassure each other. Each horse also has its own neigh, which allows horses to distinguish between a horse from their herd and a strange horse.

Hopefully you've learned something new! Have you ever been bitten by a horse? Was it a friendly nibble. or rather leaving no doubts about their opinion about your presence?