Yakutian horse

Yakutian Horse: Sturdy, Resilient, and Endangered

Introduction

The Yakutian horse is an extraordinary breed of semi-wild horse found only in the Yakutia region of Siberia. These horses are descendants of the horses that were brought to the region by the Yakuts, an indigenous nomadic people, around 800 years ago. Despite harsh living conditions in the Siberian region, these horses have evolved to become incredibly resilient, with thick, long hair that keeps them warm throughout the freezing Siberian winters. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history, temperament, height, characteristics, lifespan, colors, and health of this unique breed.

Yakutian Horse History

As mentioned previously, the Yakutian horse has been part of the Yakut people’s lives for around 800 years. These horses were used as work animals, primarily for transportation as Yakuts are primarily a nomadic people. They were also used to pull sleds, for hunting and warfare, and for supplying goods to the yakut people. The Yakutian horse breed has been significantly impacted by the Soviet Revolution and later, the mechanization of transportation. Nevertheless, the Russian government has placed significant efforts to preserve and breed this species.

Yakutian Horse Temperament

The Yakutian horse is known for its resilience, toughness, and endurance. These horses have evolved to survive in harsh living conditions, withstanding temperatures as low as minus 70° Celsius (-94° Fahrenheit). The Yakutian horse is an intelligent, independent breed that tends to keep its distance from humans. However, it can be trained and domesticated, and with proper training, it becomes affectionate and reliable.

Yakutian Horse Height

The height of the Yakutian horse is about 12.2-13.2 hands high (50-55 inches) at the withers. Their stout body type allows them to carry heavy loads with ease.

Yakutian Horse Characteristics

The Yakutian horse is a small, compact, and strong breed with long, thick hair that shields it from harsh weather conditions. They have a broad chest, a naturally high-set tail, and a broad forehead. The foundation of the Yakutian Horse breed’s hardiness lies in its hooves that have evolved to traverse over snow and ice without slipping.

Yakutian Horse Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Yakutian horse is about 25-30 years in the wild. In captivity, they can live for a few years longer.

Yakutian Horse Colors

The Yakutian horse’s hair is long, thick and comes in various shades of brown, grey, black, and chestnut. Most Yakutian horses are bay in color, with dark points and light body. Some have white markings on their legs or face. Albinos and palominos are also seen, but much less frequently.

Yakutian Horse Health

The Yakutian Horse Breed has evolved to survive against harsh conditions and is generally quite healthy. They are used to grazing on sparse brush that is often contaminated under frozen ground. The Yakutian Horse Breed, however, suffers from some diseases such as colic, dermatitis, and pneumonia.

Conclusion

The Yakutian horse is a remarkable breed that has survived for centuries in the harsh Siberian climate. It is essential to preserve and breed this species to maintain its unique characteristics and cultural significance. While the Yakutian horse is a semi-wild breed, it can be domesticated and trained to make excellent riding horses. Their small stature, resilience, and strong hooves make them the ideal breed for trekking through mountainous regions, forest trails, and snowy landscapes. Despite their robustness and ability to sustain themselves, the Yakutian horse is an endangered species, and it is our responsibility to conserve and protect them.