Developmental behavior.

Abstract

Examination of the developmental changes that occur in the behavior of foals reveals three major periods that can be characterized by certain types of behavior. Although the beginnings and endings of these periods are not definitive, these periods may be conceptually useful in evaluating a foal's behavior. Period of Dependence. During the first 4 weeks of life, a foal is maximally dependent on its mother for sustenance, remains near her, and has little contact with other horses or ponies of any age. Period of Socialization. During the second and third months of life, foals have rapidly increasing contact with ponies and horses other than their mother, especially with other foals. Mutual-grooming peaks during this period, as does snapping, which is probably being carried out as a displacement activity during the stressful period of initial contact with non-mother horses. Period of Stabilization and Developing Independence. From the fourth month onward, foals gradually become more independent, both from their mother and from other herd members as they progress toward adult patterns of spatial relationships, social interactions, and maintenance behaviors.