The end of another week and a great time to visit another exotic location and learn about the ineresting 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 Scotland.
Scottish Greats for American Beer
Scotland is home to perhaps the most recognizable of the draft breeds, the mighty Clydesdale, created early in the 18th century from Flemish animals crossed with local working animals. Centuries of selective breeding has created a find draft animal with feathered feet, handsome bearing and a noble disposition.
David & Goliath
The equine situation is one of polar opposites in Scotland. Although they are famous for their draft giants, this is a country really known for their ponies. The ponies found on some of the Scottish Isles have been there for centuries and their purity is bested only by their near neighbors (both geographically & genetically) Iceland & the Faroe Islands. Perhaps the oldest native is the Highland Pony which was roaming the Scottish Isles before the last Ice Age.
Scottish Horse Breeds
Barra Pony
Clydesdale
Eriskay Pony
Galloway Pony
Highland Pony
Shetland Pony
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 Scotland & check back next week for the breeds of Russia.