Evaluating changes in horse behavior as a response to small unmanned aerial vehicles

Abstract

• The application of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) has expanded to include livestock management, however the effects of sUAS disturbance on domestic horses (Equus calibus) has not been well documented. • We developed an ethogram to classify and record horse behaviors and changes in response to disturbance using a DJI Phantom 4 Pro sUAS by monitoring horse behavior at 5 second intervals from 3 m, 15 m, and 33 m above ground level (AGL). • We found vigilance was the most common behavior after initial approach at all AGLs. • Horses took evasive measures after approximately 20 seconds at lower AGL (i.e., <3 m). • The recovery to the control behavior occurred sooner at higher AGLs and most horses recovered within 60 seconds. • sUAS could be a valuable tool in horse management, including their potential use during domestic and free-roaming horse roundups. © 2021 The Author(s)