Large Animal Behaviour

Week 6

Why is learning large animal behaviour important?

For safety, animal welfare, effective handling, efficient vet visits, and gaining client trust.

How does understanding behaviour improve safety?

It helps handlers recognize fear, aggression, or discomfort, preventing accidents.

How does behaviour knowledge improve animal welfare?

It allows calm, respectful handling that minimizes stress during procedures.

How does behaviour impact handling effectiveness?

Working with the animal’s natural instincts makes restraint and movement safer and easier.

How does behaviour understanding improve efficiency?

Calm animals make procedures faster, safer, and more successful.

How does behaviour knowledge build client trust?

Staff can identify and explain FAS (fear, anxiety, stress) and outline strategies to reduce it.

What type of animals are considered prey animals?

Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and most large domestic species.

What is the main defensive response of prey animals?

Flight—they try to escape before they fight.

How do prey animals use their heightened senses?

They remain alert to movement, smell, and sound; subtle environmental changes affect comfort.

Why does body positioning matter when approaching prey animals?

They prefer to see potential threats; approaching from behind or head-on can startle them.

When will prey animals kick, bite, or strike?

When escape isn't possible—defensive, not aggressive behaviour.

What species commonly show herd behaviour?

Cattle, horses, sheep, and goats.

What is the “following instinct”?

If one herd member moves, others follow—helpful for safety but can cause unpredictable movement.

What role does hierarchy play in herd behaviour?

Dominant animals control resources; understanding this helps when handling individuals.

Why are herd animals calmer when near herd mates?

Herd visibility/hearing reduces stress; isolation increases vocalization and escape attempts.

How do herd animals act as observers?

They react based on the behaviour of other herd members.

What is the flight zone?

The animal’s personal space; entering it makes the animal move away.

What factors affect the size of the flight zone?

Species, temperament, and amount of human handling.

How do calm, well-handled animals differ in flight zone size?

They have smaller flight zones.

Where should a handler position themselves relative to the flight zone?

At the edge of the flight zone to encourage movement without force.

What is “pressure” in handling terms?

Stepping into the flight zone.

What is “release” in handling terms?

Stepping out of the flight zone.

What is the point of balance?

Usually at the animal’s shoulder; determines forward or backward movement.

How does the point of balance influence movement?

• Behind it → animal moves forward

• In front of it → animal stops or backs up

What determines the point of balance?

The animal’s wide-angle field of vision.

How does proper use of the flight zone and point of balance benefit handling?

Reduces stress, noise, and injury risk while improving calm, efficient movement.