what sounds do horses make

11 months ago 17

Horses can make a variety of sounds to communicate different things. Here are some of the sounds horses make and their meanings:

Neigh: A loud, high-pitched sound that is an equines social call. It is how horses find one another, and each horse has a distinctive neigh that you (and other horses) can tell apart. A loud neigh means that a horse is saying "I am here, where are you?".
Nicker: A low-pitched sound that comes from the horses gut with an average pulse rate. A horse nickers when it wants your attention and is happy. It is also a joy to hear. The sound is produced with the horses mouth closed, and the nostrils move while the ears are in a forward position to pay attention. You can hear the noise up to a position of 30 yards.
Squeal: A long, high-pitched cry or noise that is usually a warning of horse-on-horse violence. It can be a sign of anger and exuberance, but it can also be a warning. For example, when horses, especially mares, first come into close contact with a conspecific, they will occasionally squeal to communicate their excited state. Often, one foreleg is stomped on the ground at the same time. But there is a fine line between a joyful squeal and a warning squeal during a mutual sniffing. A squeal can quickly be followed by an aggressive action such as a kick if the sound is emitted out of displeasure. Many horses also squeal while they are running wild, bucking, or fighting.
Blow: A sound that horses make by blowing air out from their nostrils. They blow when they are excited or alarmed. The horse can add a rattling sound to the blow when it is highly alarmed, or it may just blow as a milder alarm. The snort may also be used during play; when the horse wants to practice its flight response, it will often snort first, then run. You may hear your horse snort on a trail ride if it detects a strange scent.
Snort: A sound that horses make by blowing air out from their nostrils. They snort when they are excited or alarmed. When horses are excited, they make snorting noises. .
Groan: A sound that horses make when they are in pain, experiencing discomfort, or during physically strenuous movements such as rising from the ground. Sometimes a groan may indicate a positive state, such as when a horse is taking a nice roll in the dirt. However, it is essential to understand other aspects of horse behavior and body language and take in the context to ensure you properly read the situation. Horses experiencing colic may also roll and groan.
Grunt: A sound that horses make when they are physically exerting themselves, such as when they are carrying a heavy load or jumping over an obstacle.
Roar: A low roaring (or whistling) sound that can indicate issues with the laryngeal nerve. It is generally most prevalent when an individual is exercising. If you hear this sound, contact your veterinarian for a consultation. Sometimes a horse, particularly a stallion, may make a low roar-like sound directed at a mare when aroused or when in conflict with another stallion.