User:Acp741/Bucking

Outline for Article:

I will be editing and added to the article "Bucking". I will begin by adding the history of wild horses, and the evolutionary purpose of the behaviour. I will then include information about how the behaviour has changed throughout the years, and how domestication has played a role in changing the behaviour of riding horses.

Bucking is a complex behaviour seen in animals with four legs, most commonly seen in horses and cows. Originally, it was predominantly an anti-predator behaviour, but with domestication, it has now been seen as a behavioural issue as well. Bucking can vary in intensity from the animals’ slight elevation of both hind legs, to lowering their head between their front legs, arching their back, and kicking out, usually several times. (1)

The bucking behaviour can be demonstrated by animals for several reasons. In non-domesticated animals, it can be used as a defense mechanism against predators such as felines. It can also be used as a mechanism of play and territory defense among the animals’ herd. A main reason we see bucking in domesticated animals is when the animal is uncomfortable, or in pain, usually stemming from vertebral issues. In some instances, in the equine world, an ill-fitting saddle can cause enough discomfort for the horse to display this behaviour. A horse can also display this behaviour when it is confused or frustrated while being ridden or trained. Signals from a rider that are inconsistent or confusing may cause the horse to become confused as to how to react to the command. Frustration can also arise if reinforcement is absent, or inconsistent during training periods. Sometimes however, the bucking behaviour is desired and provoked. This can be seen in bull riding. A cotton rope, called a flank rope, is placed loosely on the caudal region of the bulls’ abdomen, which encourages the bull to buck.