Innovative behavior of horses

Innovative behaviour means, when an animal takes a new approach to solve an environmental technology or social problem. The innovative behavior in horses has been poorly understood. Since 2013, the data collection has been running using a questionnaire as part of a study project in Nürtingen. Analysis of the database showed that horses are innovative. Based on the findings of the data analysis it now will be determined using a test, how many horses really are innovative and how innovation happens. Given an automatic feeder for the experimental test, which can be mounted in the box of the horses. The operation of a feeding station without prior demonstration may be regarded as innovative behavior. The investigations will be made on horses kept in boxes, so we can guarantee that the horses solve the task independently. We also know that animals accomplish the best cognitive performance in their familiar surroundings.
Innovative behavior is considered as a sign of intelligence, so we want to do some more steps to decode their cognitive abilities.

The aim is to better make out the intelligence of horses. The number of horses in Germany has quadrupled in the past 40 years to 1.1 million. Interest in a respectful treatment and a fair attitude is growing. But only if we know the cognitive ability of horses, we can truly understand their needs. This project is not only interesting for horse lovers and animal rights activists. Even those who are interested in the evolution of intelligence in general are part of the target group.

No other animal plays a greater role in shaping societies than the horse. Animal welfare in equestrian sport is more than ever the subject of public discussion. Especially alternative education systems that are responsive to the individual horse is highly valued today.

Upon successful funding I will implement the project. Unfortunately, my salary is not enough to finance the expenditure incurred by my promotion costs.

What are the costs?

To ensure a lively exchange, our working group meets every four weeks in Nuertingen. A ride cost me € 140. That makes for 18 meetings in total € 2,520. Then I have to go into the stalls to make my investigations. It falls to 800 € fuel costs. Also still meeting costs are added in the amount of 1500 € with arrival and accommodation. Furthermore, I need € 90 for the construction of the feeder. The horse feed to fill the machine costs about € 250. To record my experiments I bought cameras and hard drives. The Electronics has cost € 840. Overall it makes € 6,000 in sum.
This sum represents the absolute minimum. If more money comes together, the project can be further expanded.