Home / Chinese Horses / Balikun Horse

By Maurice Gainsbourg

Last updated: 12th December 2016

Balikun Horse

By

Maurice Gainsbourg
Last updated: 12th December 2016

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

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to our newsletter

Loading