Reading about wild horses, a favourite animal. Source of great wonder, beauty, intrigue. Often depicted as a magnificent embodiment of freedom, galloping through open spaces with impressive grace.
These majestic animals were 1st domesticated by Asian nomads 4,000 years ago. Although horses are associated with a wild spirit, the only truly wild horse alive today is Mongolian Horse (Przewalski’s Horse or Takhi). Seen in rock engravings, paintings found in caves in Spain, France 20,000 years ago.
Other horses perceived to be wild like American Mustang, Australian Brumby, Namib Desert horse are actually just feral horses, descending from once-domesticated breeds.
Przewalski’s Horses native to central Asia’s steppes were driven to extinction in the wild. Found their way back after great re-introduction efforts. Przewalski’s Horses are classified as highly endangered. Obstacle to recovery is loss of genetic diversity.
Love horses – so gorgeous, elegant…