caballo

Caballo is the Spanish word for horse. In biological terms, the domesticated horse is a large herbivorous mammal of the genus Equus. The domestic horse is commonly named Equus caballus or, in some classifications, Equus ferus caballus, reflecting its domestication from wild ancestors. Horses have been closely associated with human societies for thousands of years, serving transportation, agriculture, labor, sport, and companionship.

Horses are hooved, fast-running animals with a height that typically ranges from about 14 to 17 hands (56 to 68 inches, 142 to 173 cm) at the withers, depending on breed and individual. Weights vary widely, from light ponies to large draft breeds. Coat colors and patterns are diverse, including bays, chestnuts, blacks, greys, and pinto or Appaloosa patterns. Lifespan commonly falls in the range of 25 to 30 years, though some individuals live longer with good care. Horses are non-ruminant herbivores that rely on large, continuous grazing; they possess a digestive system adapted to processing fibrous plant material.

Behavior and biology: horses are social animals that form herds or groups and rely on vocalizations, body language, and mutual grooming for communication. They are highly trainable and widely used in riding, racing, work, and therapy. Reproduction involves mare estrous cycles, with an average gestation of about 11 months; foals are typically weaned after several months and began training at various ages.

Human use and conservation: hundreds of breeds exist, selected for traits such as temperament, endurance, strength, or speed. Wild or feral populations persist in some regions, while true wild horses remain rare and are the subject of conservation efforts.