Listen Up: Horses Demonstrate Auditory Laterality

A neighborly neigh is processed in a different way than other whinnies, meaning that horses have brain side preferences for sounds, according to a new study by French researchers.
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A neighborly neigh is processed in a different way than other whinnies, meaning that horses have brain side preferences for sounds, according to a new study by French researchers.

The phenomenon, known as “auditory laterality,” has previously been shown in humans, dogs, and some other vertebrates. But this new research is the first to reveal auditory laterality in ungulates, or hoofed animals.

Whereas the left hemisphere is clearly dominant for the processing of sounds that are familiar and normal, such as whinnies from nearby neighbors, both sides of the brain deal with sounds that are new or which emit an emotional response, according to the researchers. This could be a whinny from an unknown horse or one from the same social group, respectively

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Passionate about horses and science from the time she was riding her first Shetland Pony in Texas, Christa Lesté-Lasserre writes about scientific research that contributes to a better understanding of all equids. After undergrad studies in science, journalism, and literature, she received a master’s degree in creative writing. Now based in France, she aims to present the most fascinating aspect of equine science: the story it creates. Follow Lesté-Lasserre on Twitter @christalestelas.

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