Friday again and time to visit another exotic location and learn about the interesting horse breeds it’s given rise to. Looking at each breed in the context of their origins is a fascinating ride, & today a peek at the breeds from Lithuania.
Ancient Strains
There aren’t very many breeds from Lithuania, but the few that exist are important. This country is home to a member of the Konik family, the Zhumd. These forest types have been in the area for centuries and have been traditionally used for farming and transport. The original bloodlines have been influenced with a variety of exotic stock over the years which has resulted in two types, a heavier forest-type and a lighter animal with Arabian refinement.
Claim to Fame
Perhaps Lithuania’s largest claim to fame is the athletic Trakehner, which is now known as a German breed, but actually originated in East Prussia (now known as Lithuania). This breed comes from the Royal Scythians who inhabited the area during the 5th & 6th centuries BC. They were known for their great horsemanship and horseflesh. Early in the 18th century royalty again took control of the breeding reins in an attempt to create calvary mounts. They flourished until the 20th century when the Second World War destroyed their numbers. Luckily the German government recognized the importance of their bloodlines and got involved to save the breed.
Lithuanian Horse Breeds
Lithuanian Heavy Draft
Trakehner
Zhumd
Horses of the World
There is a whole worlds worth of countries to visit, so be sure to keep yourself updated. Please let me know in the comments below if I’m missing any horses of the Lithuania & check back next week for the breeds of Mongolia.