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Study Reveals Horses' Unexpected Strategic Thinking Abilities

Research from Nottingham Trent University shows horses can quickly adapt to new rules, demonstrating advanced cognitive skills.

Overview

  • Horses in the study adjusted their behavior when penalties were introduced for incorrect actions.
  • The findings challenge previous assumptions about the limitations of equine intelligence.
  • Researchers observed that horses could perform cost-benefit analysis, a complex cognitive process.
  • The study involved a reward-based game where horses had to touch a card under specific conditions to receive treats.
  • Implications of the study suggest more humane and effective training methods for horses.