If you were dealing with horses and carried with them at least a few hours a day, then the next picture you’ll be familiar. So, the animal silently standing in a meadow (in the stable), eyes closed, tucked under a back leg.
Suddenly the ear was led to one side, then the other, then the tail is brushed away an annoying fly, and his eyes remain closed. There is a question-the animal sleeps or not? Actually, of course, sleep is difficult to call, most likely, easy slumber. Many believe and argue that horse sleep standing still. But that’s not quite true. By their nature, in a standing position these animals spend most of their time.
Therefore, when there is a possibility, they fall into the light half-light. This ability to relax they got from wild ancestors. The fact that wild horses could not afford to sleep lying on your side. At any moment a herd could overtake the raptors.
And in order to rise, long-legged horse need to spend a few seconds. Sometimes this time can cost a lifetime. That is why since ancient times the horse has learned to relax standing order at any time embark on a flight. Also this ability is related to the special structure of the knee. When a horse wants to rest standing, it distributes the weight on all four legs.
