There are many cultures that traditionally keep horses. Some of these cultures have or had a nomadic lifestyle, in which our beloved quadrupeds played an important role. Hence, five facts about nomadic horses!

Did you know...

1. It was probably Eurasian nomads who domesticated horses?

They also invented a lot of horse gear, of which we use (updated) versions even now! Think bridles and saddles, for example.

2. Nomad horses are very diverse?

When thinking of ‘nomadic horse’, most people think of Arabian horses bred by the Bedouins. However, there are many breeds that have their origins in nomadic cultures! Other well-known breeds are the Akhal Teke and Barb, but they also include the Mongolian horse. Another very well-known breed, which is not usually thought of as a nomadic horse, is the Irish Cob. However, this one was bred by the Roma and Irish Travellers, who did have a nomadic style of life at that time. So the Irish Cob has a history as a nomadic horse as well!

3. Nomad horses can withstand extreme temperatures relatively well?

Arabian and Berber horses, for example, are somewhat more resilient to very hot temperatures, with their slender physiques and thin coats. Whereas the Mongolian horse, Kazakh and Yakut ponies, with their more stocky build and tendency for thick winter coats, are more suited to very cold temperatures.

Of course, it also depends on what a horse is used to, and just because they can stand it in theory doesn't mean it is comfortable for the horse! A typical Dutch-born Arabian, which sees few temperatures above 20°C, can still not be without some shade on a summer day at 35°C. 

4. These horses are often known for their strength and endurance?

And long-distance races are therefore also popular in these horse cultures, with these breeds! An example is the Mongol Derby, covering as much as 1000km. In addition, the Arabian is a super popular breed within the discipline of Endurance!

5. Nomadic peoples are also very popular in the media, especially within the fantasy genre?

For example, the Dothraki of the very popular TV and book series Game of Thrones / A Song of Ice And Fire, among others, are based on various (including nomadic) horse cultures from Eurasia. There is also a people based on this in the Ranger's Apprentice books, named the Temujai. The Aiel from Wheel of Time, another popular books ánd TV series, is based on the Bedouins, among others. Unfortunately, the nomadic horses are missing in that series!


Source: Museum of African Art, Belgrade, via Wikipedia commons