Abaco Barb
Intro
For as long as anyone can remember there has been a herd of horses on the island of Abaco in the Bahamas. In 1998 their distinct features created some interest into the unknown origin of their roots.
Origins
Their ancestors are thought to have come from the ships of Spanish explorers in the late fifteenth or early sixteenth centuries. Due to their extreme geographical isolation their bloodlines have remained relatively pure.
In 2002, the herd was accepted by the Horse of Americas Registry as the Abaco Barbs, horses of Spanish Barb ancestry proven through DNA testing.
The purity of their blood created a renewed interest in the preservation of the Barbs on Abaco Island, however the recent conservation efforts have been touch and go.
This herd is still on the critically endangered list and they are quite literally the most endangered equine on the planet.
Features
Average height 13.2 – 14.2 hands
Prominent Barb features
Sturdy and strong
Physique
Large, rangy head with broad forehead convex nose
Body is short and stocky
Tail is low set and luxurious as is the mane
Traditional Colors
Temperament
These are wild animals who have fought with humans for their survival for hundreds of years.
Use
Wild animals
Helpful Links
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Abaco Wild Horse Fund
Info Horse