BI1290, The behavioural biology of the horse, 7.5 Hp
Print syllabus

Syllabus

Finalized by: PN-VH, 2024-04-23
Valid from : Spring semester 2025 (2025-01-20)

Level

First cycle (G1N)

Main field of study

Biology

Biology Area

Zoology (animal biology)

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

Swedish

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide knowledge of the behaviour and needs of the horse as well as give basic knowledge in how housing and handling influence the horse. On completion of the course, the student should be able to: - describe the evolutionary background of the horse both regarding environment and behavioural adaptations, - describe the behavioural disorders of the horse, how they arise and how they can be prevented and handled - account for the animal welfare legislation that regulates the housing environment, maintenance and handling of the horse at a general level - analyse and discuss the behaviour of the horse from different perspectives and with different target groups - account orally and in writing for the relationship between different horse management systems and how these influence the behaviour of the horse - under supervision review and discuss scientific and popular literature concerning the housing of horses and behaviour - account for ethological methodology with respect to horse at a general level.

Content

The course covers the biology of the horse and evolutionary origin as well as the behavioural adaptations that the horse has developed. The basic and normal behaviours of the horse, the behavioural needs of the horse, how these have been developed, the behavioural disorders and stereotypic behaviours of the horse will also to be highlighted. The course gives an insight in how housing and handling can influence the behaviour of the horse. The course also includes practicing to interpret the signals and behaviour of the horse. The course also covers the legislation that regulates housing environments for horse. The course is carried out at distance with two compulsory weekend gatherings (Sat-Sun) at SLU in Skara. Apart from lectures e g compulsory seminars, exercises, study visits and project work are included.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written and oral presentation of project work as well as approved participation in compulsory components.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Horse behaviour and needs	2.5	0302
Animal welfare and legislation	2.0	0303
Horse management, project work	3.0	0304

The Course Replaces

BI0957

Other Information

The course is designed as a distance learning course with two madatory on campus meetings im Skara.
A large part of the reading list is in English.
Expenses related to field trips may occur.
It is a necessity for the student to have access to a computer and an internet connection.