Bali Pony
The Bali Pony is an ancient breed indigenous to Bali, the Indonesian island. Having a robust and hardy disposition, they are used for performing several tasks, also serving as mounts for tourists.
Bali Pony Pictures
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- Bali Pony Pictures
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- Bali Pony
Quick Information
| Temperament/ Personality | Independent, tough, self-sufficient |
| Physical Characteristics | Small sized, with a large unrefined head; straight profile; upright shoulder leading to short; choppy strides; a narrow back and chest; short, straight neck; strong legs with proper joints and hard hooves |
| Colors | Dun is the primary color also accompanied by primitive markings such as the zebra stripes, shoulder bars and dorsal stripes on the legs |
| Common Use | Packhorse, for trekking and carrying tourists for sightseeing |
| Height | 12 to 13 hands |
| Weight | About 440 pounds |
| Health | This hardy breed has no known breed-related health issues as such |
| Popular Traits | Hardy, and needs less care |
| Feeding/ Diet | Hay and grain |
| Country of Origin | Indonesia ( Bali) |
| Year of development | Unknown |
| Ancestors | Though no specific details provided, it might be an outcome of crossing the Mongolian horses as well as breeds from India and Netherlands |
History
There has been no concrete information about the roots of the Bali Pony. However, researchers in the 20th century made an attempt of tracing their origins. From the studies they presented, it was revealed that Chinese had brought them to the Java island of Indonesia in the 6th century as gifts for the king. If this information is valid enough, then this breed could have its lineage linked to the Mongolian horse. Moreover, some horses from India were also transported to Indonesia, though the names of them, in particular, are unknown. Horses were also brought from Netherlands to Indonesia by the Dutch in the 18th century. The crossbreeding of these breeds may have led to the development of the Bali pony.
Because of the lack of a proper breeding program, this breed has a somewhat unrefined conformation, though they are strong and hardy enough in comparison to their size.
They have not been selectively bred for a particular purpose but can perform several tasks needed by the local people like carting stones and corals from the beach.
Interesting Facts
- This breed has such a strong feet that it does not needs shoes.
