When I first saw this (a few months ago) I commented that I'd be interested in the perspective of someone who knows something about the evolutionary psychology of horses. I'd expect this kind of behaviour more from an intelligent carnivore, but a horse is certainly not the latter and not particularly known as the former. So it seems incongruous.
One of my horses does this with anything that makes an interesting noise. His favourite recently is a plastic bucket which makes satisfying 'twanging' noises when he whirls it around by the handle. In the end the handle, twisted beyond its ability, gives, and the bucket soars off, which also seems to amuse him, as he can then chase it.
When I first saw this (a few months ago) I commented that I'd be interested in the perspective of someone who knows something about the evolutionary psychology of horses. I'd expect this kind of behaviour more from an intelligent carnivore, but a horse is certainly not the latter and not particularly known as the former. So it seems incongruous.
ReplyDeletehttp://tywkiwdbi.blogspot.com/2010/03/all-animals-except-man-know-that.html
DeleteOne of my horses does this with anything that makes an interesting noise. His favourite recently is a plastic bucket which makes satisfying 'twanging' noises when he whirls it around by the handle. In the end the handle, twisted beyond its ability, gives, and the bucket soars off, which also seems to amuse him, as he can then chase it.
ReplyDeleteHi, Dr. Mieke! Glad you're still here. An Aussie acquaintance has told me that this has been a wickedly hot summer for you guys; hope the farm is ok.
DeleteHave you tried giving your horse a large beachball as a diversion?
Did not see that coming, lol!
ReplyDeleteThat entertained me probably a bit than I thought it would have.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful horse! Very amusing video. Thanks!
ReplyDelete