Behavioral and Physiological Responses of Horses to Simulated Aircraft Noise
Abstract
The effects of simulated F-4 aircraft noise on pregnancy outcome, behavior, rate of habituation, cardiac function, serum cortisol and progestogen concentrations of pregnant mares were determined. Eight experimental and 8 control mares were exposed to aircraft noise on days 320, 323, and 324 of pregnancy. The noise was heard over 47 sec with sound intensity increasing at 54.7 dB/sec to a maximum of 115 dB. Behavior was viewed using closed circuit TV and tapes were scored by a 5-member panel. All treatment mares delivered live, normal foals without assistance. Mean anxiety and movement scores were significantly different. Heart rate increased during noise periods, but without ectopic arrhythmias. Researchers observed some adaptation to the noise with less of a heart rate increase after successive episodes. Treatment mares experienced a significant rise in serum cortisol only after the first exposure to noise. Progesterone concentrations in serum varied greatly among individuals, but profiles were well within the normal range.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA303873
Entities
People
- Christoph Lombard
- Elizabeth Klapstein
- Michelle Leblanc
- Ruth Massey
- Sandra Lieb
Organizations
- University of Florida