Oromo Horse
Intro
Also known as the Abyssinian & Gala, the Oromo Horse bloodlines have been diluted with a wide variety of different breeds. However, with all of the dilution they have several characteristic features that manage to persist.
Origins
One of the oldest recorded breeds, the Oromo bloodlines come from Ethiopia where they roamed free on the plains for centuries. Over time they spread along the coast of the Red Sea. They were first imported into England in 1861, where they quickly became prized for several of their unique characteristics.
Special Oromo
The Oromo coat is invariably short & harsh, often with rosettes & ridges – similar to Bashkir animals, but with short hair. They also have a tendency to grow a mustache around their nose & Oromo’s often have green eyes (the genetic reason for this is unknown). Dedicated breeders & enthusiasts today attempt to retain these unique qualities in their animals.
Features
Average height 13 -14 hands
Bred for strength & agility as mountain pack/ work horses
Physique
Because of the high level of dilution, these animals come in all shapes & sizes. There is no breed standard per se
Coat is short & coarse, often with rosettes
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Strong & willing, these are hot weather animals bred as workhorses
Use
Work horses
Pleasure horse
Show horse