Poll (livestock)
Top of an animal's head between the ears
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Etymology and related terminology
The term poll comes from Middle English pol, polle 'scalp, pate', from Middle Dutch pol, pōle, polle 'top, summit; head'[2]
Specifically, the "poll" refers to the occipital protrusion at the back of the skull.[3] However, in common usage, many horsemen refer to the poll joint, between the atlas (C1) and skull as the poll.[4] The area at the joint has a slight depression, and is a sensitive location. Thus, because the crownpiece of a bridle passes over the poll joint, a rider can indirectly exert pressure on the horse's poll by means of the reins, bit, and bridle.[5]
See also
- Polled livestock, for information on naturally or mechanically dehorned animals
