Fun Facts posts can fall on any day but we'll call it Fun Facts Thursday for now. Today, let's start with the head - going from vision to ears to hair cuts.
We have all looked many a kind horse in the eye and wondered what they saw on their end...so here are some answers - albeit scientific!
Vision! A horse's eyes are set on the side of the head, allowing it to see two different pictures, one with each each eye. The sight line of the eyes can converge straight ahead to focus on one object. This area of convergence is the only area where a horse can clearly judge distances.
Horse's side-set eyes and flexible necks are well suited for grazing. The field of vision is wide with limited blind spots, so potential predators can be sighted. Studies indicate that horses have dichromatic vision, allowing them to see a limited range of colors, usually the ones found in nature. Horses have a difficult time seeing blue, purple, and violet.
Ears! The quickest way to gauge your animal's mood is to check out their ear position. If the ears are pricked forward, the horse is concerned or curious; if the ears are relaxed and neutral, there is a good chance he/she is feeling at peace; if the ears are slightly back, the horse may be warning you of annoyance or anger ... be aware; if the ears are flat back, the horse is extremely upset - be careful!; and when riding, it is not uncommon for one ear to be back, paying attention to its rider.
Haircuts! These are pretty specific to breed and discipline but here are a few recognizable and common styles. Some horses have a few inches of the mane behind the ears shaved off to create a path for the bridle to sit comfortably. Many breeds have their manes shortened to a few inches by hand pulling and breaking process. These short manes are better suited to braiding for competitions. When a horse's mane is completely shaved off, it is called a roached mane. These buzz cuts are very low maintenance. It is not uncommon to see dressage or quarter horse tails heared in a complete square at the bottom. Most all breeds and disciplines keep a forelock - the "bangs" that hang between the horse's ears.
We hoped you learned a little something today. Check back often for programs, news, updates and more.
