Balikun Horse
The Balikun is a light equine breed indigenous to the Xinjiang region of China. Primarily used for riding and draft work, it has an immense stamina and high level of endurance to survive through rough conditions.
Balikun Horse Pictures
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- Balikun Horse
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- Balikun Horses
Quick Information
| Temperament | Willing, able, friendly, calm, and easy-to-manage |
| Physical Characteristics | Heavy head; small ears; short and thick neck; well-muscled body; low withers; short and flat back; strong legs; sound feet; sloping croup and a low set tail |
| Color | Bay, chestnut |
| Size | Approximately 14 hands |
| Weight | Unknown |
| Common Use | Riding, cart pulling, draft work, pack work |
| Popular Traits | Tough-natured and can stand adverse conditions |
| Feeding | Hay and grain |
| Health Problems | No breed-related health issues recorded |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Year of Development | 200 years ago |
| Ancestors | Mongolian and Kazakh horse |
History
Though the history regarding this breed is unknown, it is said to be descendants of Mongolian and Kazakh horses. According to facts, the Balikun County were under the control of the Kazakh and Mongolian tribes who bred their horses with the ponies existing in this region.
They were bred selectively by farmers of the area where they grazed in the open under harsh weather conditions, with the temperature dropping to -40 degree Fahrenheit. The horses born from selective breeding were examined, with the healthiest of the lot further used for future breeding while the weaker ones were sold away. In this way, horses belonging to the Baikun lineage got tougher surviving under harsh conditions with inadequate food.
