Horses+of+the+Southwest

The first domestication of horses was in central Asia between 3000 and 4000 B.C. They were originally used for meat and milk. By 2000 B.C., horses were spread throughout Europe and Asia. Their anatomy makes them able to use speed to escape predators. They have a strong fight or flight instinct and have a well developed sense of balance. They reach full adult development by age five and have an average lifespan of 26-30 years. Foal: less than one year old. Yearling: one to two years old. Colt: male horse under the age of four. Filly: female under the age of four. Mare: female over age four. Stallion: male four years and older. Horses are measured in hands. They are measured at the highest point of their withers (where the neck meets the back). A hand is about four inches. The height and weight of horses vary by breed and can be influenced by nutrition. Light riding horses (Arabian, Quarter horses, Morgans) usually range from 14-16 hands (56-64 inches) and can weigh about 840-1200 pounds. Larger riding horses (Thoroughbreds, Saddlebreds, or Warmbloods) usually start at about 15-17 hands and weigh about 1100-1300 pounds. Heavy or draft horses (Clydesdales, Belgians, Shires) are at least 16-18 hands (64-72 inches) and weigh 1500-2200 pounds. Works cited: Picture courtesy of http://www.horsesmaine.com/images/2%20%20horses.jpg Information courtesy of wikipedia.com and http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/breeds/horses/