Studying Resting Behaviors in Feral and Domestic Horses

SUMMARY: Researchers will compare the time feral horses spend lying down with domestic horses to learn more about how management does, or doesn’t, alter this important component of health and recovery in horses.

THE PROBLEM: Horses need to spend some time lying down for optimal sleep quality. Management practices can disrupt this important component of the sleep cycle, and researchers have documented large variations in the time domestic horses spend lying down. However, what is “normal” isn’t known. A basic understanding of the time horses should lie down for optimal health and recovery would improve welfare.

THE PROJECT: This pilot study aims to provide a first glimpse of the impact of domestic conditions on equine sleep by comparing domestic horses with feral horses. The primary objective is to determine whether human management influences the duration, frequency, and temporal distribution of lying behavior. This study will also explore which aspects of human management—such as social isolation, indoor housing or feeding routines—could influence the lying behavior of domestic horses. The results will enhance our understanding of equine welfare and help develop evidence-based recommendations to optimize housing and management practices. 

POTENTIAL IMPACT: This pilot study will serve as a valuable starting point for a deeper exploration of equine lying behavior and sleep in domestic conditions and its broader implications for equine welfare