Danube Delta Horse
Intro
This is a breed of small horse or large pony that comes from the Danube Delta in Romania. There are around 5,600 wild horses that live in the delta between the Sulina and the Chilli rivers.
Origins
These animals have been native to this wetland area for centuries and were frequently caught & tamed by local farmers to keep herds from overcrowding.
In 1990 the collective farms in the area were closed and the herd numbers immediately increased, causing environmental concern around the delta. The state did not take control of the herd, and eventually part of the herd was captured in 2002 and exported to Italy for meat production.
Today, the herd is small and its fate hangs in the balance. There are parties working towards humanely moving some of them, while allowing a small herd to remain as they have for so long.
Features
Average height 13.2 – 14 hands
Physique
Large ponies
Head is attractive with a straight profile
Eyes are large & alert
Robust & well muscled construction
Legs are long & slender
Traditional Colors
Temperament
Once domesticated they are docile & manageable
Willing to work
Use
Riding horse
Work horse