Horsing Around
The first ancestor of today’s horse was Hyracotherium, or ‘dawn horse’. Originating from the forests of North America, with its small neck, arched back and short legs, the ancient beast walked on pads like a dog and bore little resemblance to its modern relation.
Living in southern Sardinia, the agile, surefooted Giara is well suited to its rocky, mountainous homeland
Although wild horse herds are in decline, there are still enough for us to appreciate their pure, unfettered beauty. A vast diversity of horse breeds has subsequently been developed by humans for numerous purposes: for war, for working in the fields and in industry, for competitive sports events like the Olympic Games and just as adorable, faithful friends for the pony club.
The Welsh Cob, renowned for its powerful trot, was once the speediest means of transport for doctors and tradesmen
From left: This gentle Icelandic horse has a deep liver-chestnut coat with a flaxen mane and tail. The Palomino, with its glowing golden coat, is much sought after as a parade horse
The Appaloosa, with its spotted coat and striped hooves, is one of America’s most iconic breeds
Horses, by Bob Langrish and Nicola Jane Swinney, is published by Bloomsbury Natural History, priced £20.
Living in southern Sardinia, the agile, surefooted Giara is well suited to its rocky, mountainous homelandAlthough wild horse herds are in decline, there are still enough for us to appreciate their pure, unfettered beauty. A vast diversity of horse breeds has subsequently been developed by humans for numerous purposes: for war, for working in the fields and in industry, for competitive sports events like the Olympic Games and just as adorable, faithful friends for the pony club.
The Welsh Cob, renowned for its powerful trot, was once the speediest means of transport for doctors and tradesmenFrom left: This gentle Icelandic horse has a deep liver-chestnut coat with a flaxen mane and tail. The Palomino, with its glowing golden coat, is much sought after as a parade horseThe Appaloosa, with its spotted coat and striped hooves, is one of America’s most iconic breedsHorses, by Bob Langrish and Nicola Jane Swinney, is published by Bloomsbury Natural History, priced £20.