Horse Head Flicking & Snorting

Horses communicate through gestures and making sounds such as snorting. Understanding the meaning behind the various types of equine communication helps horse owners bond with their pets and appropriately respond to their needs.

  1. Head Flicking

    • Head flicking or tossing happens for several reasons, according to equine veterinarian Robert N. Oglesby. It can signal aggression toward other horses. This is easily recognized as the flicking horse clearly has his attention directed at another animal.

      More commonly, this behavior stems from an irritation around the head, such as insects, tooth problems or nasal and sinus diseases. Some horses also react to bright light by flicking, a behavior called photic headshaking.

    Snorting

    • Snorting can signal aggression when a horse meets a new horse, particularly one he feels threatened by. In herds, the snort communicates a signal of danger to other horses and is expressed when a horse senses a disruption in his environment. If the threat passes, the animal relaxes. But if it persists, the horse may spook or bolt.

    Warning

    • Head flicking behavior can signal health problems. Consult an equine veterinarian if it happens frequently.