Horse behaviour gurus?

[Box_Of_Frogs]

I've had rescue Shetland Molly (9hh, 16yr old mare) for about 7 weeks now. She is still a very timid little ned but we're getting there. She shares her stable/field with the little (unrelated) gelding Donut, who was rescued at the same time. He's a teeny bit bigger but MUCH younger. Whilst they get worried apart (working on that too), I'm beginning to feel Molly is a little overwhelmed by Donut. He needs to rough and tumble and play boy's games but Molly just wants peace and quiet. Well, last few days I was over the moon because for the first time, Molly nickered to me as I came to the gate. I thought it was a real step forward. But I find out she's been nickering to other horses, other people, you name it. I'm not sure what this means. She's been wormed, Frontlined, teeth done, scrapes and bumps sorted, put on a little condition, B12 jab, sensible Shetland-friendly diet. Why does she nicker? Is she unhappy? In pain? Miserable? In love with the whole world? Does she want to be away from Donut? Is she hungry? I just don't know how to interpret a tiny soft nicker. She's a very introverted little girl and though she's settling now, I think she doesn't rate people that highly. Anyone got any ideas or experienced something similar with rescued ponies?

 

[Crazy Friesian]

Ordinarily I would say that she is coming out of herself. Generally introvert quiet is a sign of lack of confidence etc. Bit like with people - keep quiet n you wont be noticed etc. In her case her nickering could be just that. A sign that perhaps she is looking for reassurance. It may be part of her personal rehab process. They are all different. You may find that as her confidence increases she'll be a chatty little girl.

 

[Paint it Lucky]

I don't think you should worry about her nickering! See it as a good thing, she is clearly feeling more settled now and wants to communicate with you and others, she is starting to know where she is/her routine etc. I would see it as a good sign.

 

[_HP_]

I would view it as a good sign...that she wants interaction but is perhaps not ready to go the whole hog just yet

 

[HollyB66]

My horse nickers when she is anticipating something good - usually her tea! I thought it was a 'good noise'. So, possibly a good sign that you little pony is settling in and feeling content??