Bhirum (Nigerian) Pony
The Bhirum Pony is a breed of domestic equines that developed in Nigeria through human interference. Also known as the ‘Nigerian Pony’, these are very versatile pets that are often used for light draft and pack work. However, they have also proved to be good for riding purposes. Bhirum ponies are known for their handsome looks.
Bhirum Pony Pictures
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- Bhirum Ponies
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- Bhirum Pony
Quick Information
| Other Names | Nigerian Pony |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Energetic, willing, docile, obedient |
| Physical Traits | As a whole attractive by looks with and compact features throughout the body, and a straight profile, with strong legs and well defined tendons (though some individuals develop poor hindquarters), the head tend to be plain with small but alert ears pricked forward, the neck is short while the shoulder has a nice slope; the chest is deep with prominent withers and a short back while the tail is set low |
| Coat Colors | Black, Bay, Bay Roan, Wild Bay, Chestnut, Gray, Palomino, Seal Brown |
| Patterns/Markings | Pastern, Snip, Star, Fetlock, HPastern, Strip, Sock, Stocking, Pangare, Blaze, Coronet |
| Height/Size | Large; 14-14.2 hands (adult); (approximately 56.4 inches to the withers) |
| Weight | Average |
| Common Uses | Only light draft, pack work and riding (not common for any known popular activities) |
| Health Problems | Generally healthy |
| Type | Working horse, Light draft horse, Pack horse, Riding horse |
| Ancestors (Bloodlines) | Barb Horse, Local ponies, Poney Mousseye (probably) |
| Popular Traits | Strong, endurable, hardy, heat-resistant |
| Availability | Common |
| Feeding/Diet | General horse diet including hay, grass, grains, etc. |
| Country of Origin | Nigeria |
History and Development
The Bhirum Pony developed in Nigeria’s northern regions. Nothing much is known about this breed. However, it is thought to have descended from Cameroon’s Poney Mousseye, which is not much a popular breed, as well as from the Barb horse. The latter was imported to Nigeria by the nomadic people and was crossed with the local ponies, thus giving birth to the first Bhirum Pony.
These are large ponies, compared to the standard size of the other pony breeds. They display horse-like features and hence, are seldom referred to as ‘small horses’. These ponies emerged as an incredibly versatile breed that is well-resistant to the heat of the environment they are born in.
Interesting Facts
- These ponies are typically quiet (does not neigh much).
- The sloping croup in this breed is a characteristic to the Barb horse.
- These ponies are sometimes bred donkey and zebra.
- This breed is a member of the group of horses collectively known as the ‘West African Dongola’ or the ‘West African Barb’ – a classification that is often referred to as ‘degenerate Barbs’.
