Horses

Horses are large domesticated members of the family Equidae, scientifically classified as Equus ferus caballus. They were domesticated from wild ancestors in the Eurasian steppe during the Neolithic and have since served as beasts of burden, means of transport, and partners in sport, work, and companionship. Today they are kept worldwide for riding, farming, therapy, and recreation.

Anatomy and biology: Horses vary widely in size, but many riding horses stand about 14 to 17 hands high (56 to 68 inches, 142 to 173 cm) and weigh roughly 380 to 900 kilograms. They have a single strong hoof on each leg, a long neck, and a head adapted for grazing and vigilance. They are non-ruminant herbivores with a hindgut fermentation system, requiring regular access to high-fiber forage and water. Their teeth continually grow and wear with grazing, making dental care important. Horses are social, intelligent, and responsive to training, and they communicate through vocalizations and body language.

Reproduction and life cycle: Mares reach sexual maturity around 2 to 3 years old. Gestation lasts about 11 months, typically yielding a single foal. Foals stand and nurse shortly after birth and mature gradually, reaching full physical and behavioral maturity after several years.

Uses and diversity: There are hundreds of breeds with a wide range of temperaments and abilities, including riding horses, athletes, and draft types. Prominent groups include Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Quarter Horses, Warmbloods, and drafts like Clydesdales. Wild and feral populations persist in some regions, with the Przewalski’s horse (Equus ferus przewalskii) representing a distinct, endangered wild lineage.