BASHKIR

Either of two varieties of a breed of pony native to the Bashkortostan Republic, formerly known as Bashkiria, in central Russia. The Bashkir descended from prehistoric horses, and existed as a distinct breed before it was domesticated. Both the steppe Bashkir and the mountain Bashkir are used for riding and draft work (pulling wagons and carts). A large pony, the Bashkir has a wide, sturdy body with short, wide-set legs. It stands 132 to 142 cm (52 to 56 in, or 13 to 14 hands) high at the withers (the high part of the back, located between the shoulder blades). The back is flat and straight, the neck short and thick, and the head heavy-set. The Bashkir's coat usually is chestnut (gold), although it can be bay (reddish) or light brown. The coat, mane, and tail are thick and curly. The Bashkir lives in pastures and on open rangeland in frigid winter conditions, even during blizzards and temperatures that drop below -40Degr. (-40Degr. F). The Bashkir probably has been used for more purposes over the centuries than any other horse. It pulls the traditional Russian three-horse basket-sleigh, called a troika. A good troika team of Bashkirs can travel about 120 to 140 km (about 75 to 87 mi) in 24 hours without being fed. In addition to working as a draft animal, the Bashkir is used for riding and packing (carrying cargo). In the former Soviet Union, this pony was raised under state supervision for meat and milk, as well as for work. A Bashkir mare produces up to 1600 liters (423 gallons) of milk during the seven to eight months that it nurses a colt. Even the curly hair of this animal is brushed out in the spring and woven into cloth.

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