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Revision as of 14:41, 6 May 2008 by Dana boomer (talk | contribs) (Adding unref tag)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)| Other names | Bhutia Pony Bhotia Pony Bhote ghoda Bhutan Pony Bhutani Bhutua Pony Spiti Pony Tibetan Pony |
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| Country of origin | India |
| Notes | |
| Interbred mixture of Bhutia, Spiti and Tibetan Ponies | |
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Indian Country Bred is the common name for the inter-bred mixture of Bhutia Ponies, Spiti Ponies and Tibetan Ponies. These animals have been interbred for years so that many of the individual characteristics have been lost, and are now all categorized as "Indian Country Bred". They originated in the Himalayan region of India, and are now found in the Buhtan, Sikkim and Darjeeling regions of India.
The Tibetan Pony descended from ancient stock, likely partly from the Mongolian Pony and Chinese breeds, before being crossed with other Asian breeds. The ponies are well-regarded by the local people, and they have been traditionally kept by both wealthy Tibetans and farmers alike, as well as by the Dalai Lama. The ponies were sent as gifts to Chinese Emperors, especially during the Ming and Tang dynasties.
Suited to mountainous climate and terrain, they are not as able to endure humidity and heat. Lack of nutritious grasses generally affects the growth and development of the ponies, although they have become incredibly tough and self-sufficient, requiring little fodder. The conformation of these ponies is usually not superior. They have a large head and pronounced jaw, short neck, low withers, sloping quarters, and deep chest. The shoulder is a bit straight and upright, the legs, although short, are very strong.
Bhutia-type ponies range in height from 12-13.2 hh, and are usually gray in color, although a few are chestnut or roan. Spiti-type ponies usually never get taller than 12 hh, and they are usually gray or dun in color, although they may be any solid color. Tibetan-type ponies stand at around 12.2 hh and are usually bay or gray, but may be any solid color.
The ponies are kept mainly for work, mainly as pack ponies and sometimes for riding, to which their stamina and endurance serves them well. They generally have a willing and quiet temperament.
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