Horses‘ Impulse Control is Stronger Than You Think

Horses have long been known for their strength, beauty, and grace, but new research suggests that they may possess a level of intelligence that is far beyond what we previously believed. A study conducted by scientists at Nottingham Trent University has revealed that horses are capable of a form of advanced cognitive reasoning known as model-based learning.

In the study, researcher Louise Evans trained a group of 20 horses to touch a target in exchange for a treat. The horses quickly learned to touch the target every time they saw it, motivated by the reward they received. However, when Evans introduced a light cue as a signal for the horses to stop touching the target, they struggled to grasp the new rule. This was surprising, as goldfish have been shown to be able to learn similar tasks.

The researchers were initially puzzled by the horses‘ apparent inability to follow the new rule. They considered the possibility that the horses were simply being obstinate or that they couldn’t see the light cue clearly. However, they eventually realized that the horses had actually figured out a clever way to „cheat“ the game. The horses had learned that they could touch the target every time, regardless of the light cue, and still receive a reward.

To test this hypothesis, the researchers introduced a penalty for the horses when they ignored the light cue and continued to touch the target. The penalty involved removing the target and stepping away from the horse for ten seconds. Surprisingly, the horses quickly adapted their behavior and began to follow the rules of the game, indicating that they had understood the task all along.

This ability to engage in model-based learning is a highly advanced cognitive skill that was previously unknown in horses. It involves building a mental model or picture of the game, considering different actions and outcomes, and making strategic decisions based on this information. This level of cognitive reasoning is akin to playing chess, where individuals must think several steps ahead to anticipate their opponent’s moves.

The researchers believe that this ability may have evolved in horses to give them a competitive advantage in the wild, even though they do not typically need to strategize in the same way as predators. Further research is needed to understand the full implications of this discovery and how it may benefit horses in their natural environment.

Overall, this study sheds new light on the intelligence of horses and challenges our preconceived notions about their cognitive abilities. It highlights the importance of continuing to study and understand the complex minds of animals, even those that we may have underestimated in the past.