Horse Watching by Desmond Morris is a fascinating blend of science, observation, and affection for one of humanity’s oldest animal companions. Written by the renowned zoologist and ethologist best known for The Naked Ape, this book explores the behavior of horses through a biological and evolutionary lens.
Morris takes readers on an engaging journey through the body language, social structures, and instincts of horses, explaining not just what they do, but why they do it. From tail swishing and ear movements to herd hierarchy and human-horse interactions, Horse Watching answers curious questions that horse lovers often wonder about. Why do horses neigh? Why do they roll in the dirt? Why are they spooked by seemingly harmless things?
Combining accessible science with vivid anecdotes, Morris decodes equine behavior in a way that’s both enlightening and enjoyable for casual readers, riders, and lifelong equestrians alike. This is not just a book about horses—it’s a guide to truly understanding them.