Horses
are fully developed neurologically at birth.
Foals stand up and follow the herd shortly after
being born.
From birth through the first 3 to 5 days is the most
important imprinting period in a horse's life. Foals learn
best through flooding (endless repetition of lessons) at this stage
of their development.
Unfortunately, the Forest Service rarely
gets to take advantage of this opportunity, as most stock
is purchased at an older age.