The Sarcidano is a rare and beautiful horse breed that is found exclusively in Sardinia in Italy.
This unique breed is known for its spirited personality and stunning features.
If you’re lucky enough to spot a Sarcidano Horse, be sure to take some time to admire it – you won’t be disappointed!
If you’re interested in learning more about this amazing breed, keep reading!
Sarcidano Horse Breed Info
Here are some of the key things you need to know about the Sarcidano:
| Height (size) | 11.3 – 14.2 hands high |
| Colors | Black, bay, gray |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Common Uses | No use of the Sarcidano horse has been documented |
Sarcidano Facts & Information (Breed Profile)
It is one of fifteen indigenous horse “breeds of limited distribution” recognized by the Italian Breeders Association (AIA).
The Sarcidino Horse is a breed of semi-feral horses that originated in the Oristano province of Sardinia in Italy.
Researchers Valliati and Bell came to the conclusion in 1997 and 1999 respectively, that these horses may trace their ancestry back to the Iberian breed of horses, which suggests that these horses have been around for 25,000 years.
The existence of seventh molar teeth has led Baccino, another researcher, to deduce that the sarcidano horses had developed from primitive breeds like the Exmoor Pony or the Caspian horse, because this is a trait that was solely common to these ancient equines.
In addition, he notices the existence of an allele in the Sarcidano that is otherwise exclusive to Przewalski’s Horse.
The comune of Laconi purchased a herd of fifteen horses from a private owner in 1999.
This herd, which in 2006 totaled around 100 horses, lives in the state-owned forest of Funtanamela on the Sarcidano plateau.
A second herd, which is privately owned, also lives in the same region, while a third group is owned by the the Horse Breeding Institute of Sardinia (Istituto di Incremento Ippico della Sardegna) in Foresta Burgos in the center northern part of Sardinia.
In 2003 the Sarcidano was recognized as a breed, and the stud book was formed in 2005.
In 2007, there were roughly 190 Sarcidano horses, with 78 of them being mares.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, keep reading!
Alternative Names
n/a
Temperament/Personality
Lively, adaptable
Physical Characteristics
The head is somewhat heavy with a straight profile, and large eyes and nostrils.
The neck is muscular with thick mane.
The shoulder is quite straight, and the withers are high.
The croup is short and muscular.
The legs are short, strong and the joints are broad.
The hooves are strong.
The action is lively and sure-footed.
Colors
Black, bay, gray
Height (size)
11.3 – 14.2 hands high. Horses over 14.5 hands high at 30 months may not be registered.
Stallions
12.3 – 14.2 hands high
Mares
11.3 – 13.2 hands high
Weight
n/a
Blood Type
Warm
Common Uses
No use of the Sarcidano horse is documented.
Health
n/a
Popular Traits
Semi-feral breed
Feeding/Diet
n/a
Country of Origin
Italy (Sardinia)
Ancestors
Iberian horse (speculated)