Zaniskari
chestnut | |
The Zaniskari or Zanskari is a
History
In 1977 the population of Zaniskari horses was estimated at 15000–20000.
In 2013 there were approximately 9700 of the horses. In 2022 the conservation status of the breed was listed in DAD-IS as "at risk/critical maintained", based on a reported population of 346 animals.[2]
A genetic analysis of five Indian horse breeds in 2007 found the Zaniskari to be close to the Manipuri, Spiti and Bhutia breeds, and more distant from the Marwari.[10] A study of all six Indian breeds in 2014 grouped the Zaniskari with the Bhutia, Manipuri and Spiti breeds, and found it to be most closely related to the Spiti.[11]
Characteristics
The Zaniskari is strong, compact and well built, and is particularly adapted to work in the
Use
The Zaniskari is particularly adapted to work as a pack animal in the high altitudes and challenging conditions of its native region, which lies between 3000 and 5000 m above sea level, and where temperatures may reach −40 °C. It is strong and sure-footed, and has good stamina.[5]: 57 The Indian army in Ladakh uses it as a pack-beast. It is also used for riding and for polo.[5]: 58
References
- ^ ISBN 9789251057629. Accessed June 2015.
- ^ a b c d Breed data sheet: Zaniskari Pony / India (Horse). Domestic Animal Diversity Information System of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Accessed January 2023.
- ^ a b c d Equines in India: Horses: Zanskari Horse. Indian Council of Agricultural Research: National Research Centre on Equines. Archived 5 August 2017.
- ^ ISBN 0751301159.
- ^
- ^ a b Brief on Zanskari Ponies. Indigenous Horse Society of India. Archived 1 June 2018.
- ^ ISBN 9788190065108.
- ^ About Indian Horses. Indigenous Horse Society of India. Archived 3 August 2018.
- .
- (subscription required)
- (subscription required).