Horses
By Hailey 8J
Evolution
The horse has evolved over the past 45 to 55 million years. Humans began to domesticate horses around 4000 B.C. The domestication of horses became widespread by 3000 B.C. Horses have a well developed sense of balance. They also have a strong fight-or-flight response.
Foals
Mares (female horses) carry their young for about eleven months. Foals are able to stand up and run shortly after birth. Foals start training in a saddle and harness between the ages of two and four. Horses are considered adults at age five, and can live anywhere from 25-30 years.
Size and Measurement
A horses height is measured at the highest point of their withers, where their neck meets their back. In English we measure the height of horses by hands, one hand equal to four inches. The size of horses is influenced by breed and nutrition. Light riding horses most often range from 14 to 16 hands. Larger riding horses can be closer to 15 to 17 hands. Heavy draft horses are usually from 16 hands (at the very least) to 18 hands high.