Hooved mammals with barrel-shaped bodies and long legs, horses are equines, along with zebras and donkeys. There are more than 300 domestic horse breeds that descended from wild horses. One wild ancestor, the Asian Wild Horse, can be found along the Minnesota Zoo’s Northern Trail.
What They Eat
With their long necks and specialized teeth, horses spend several hours each day grazing on grasses. Domestic horses generally eat a diet of hay or grass and grain. Horses need about 10-12 gallons of water per day.
Where They Live
Horses live anywhere humans do, except in Antarctica. Different breeds are adapted to different climates. For example, small, woolly Icelandic horses survive in the harsh Arctic tundra, while Arabian horses are suited to the hot desert with their stamina and compact bodies.
What They Do
Horses are social animals that spend time grooming one another. They communicate through body language and vocalizations such as neighs, nickers, squeals and snorts. In the wild, horses live in social bands or herds that typically include 4-10 members.
How They’re Doing
There are over nine million horses in the United States. Most breeds are doing well around the world, but some breeds are rare, such as the American Cream draft horse. The horse’s wild ancestor, the Asian Wild Horse, was nearly extinct and has only recently been reintroduced into the wild.
Common Names
Band or Herd: small group horses
Colt: young male
Filly: young female
Foal: baby horse
Gelding: castrated male
Mare: female
Pony: small horse breeds
Stallion: male
Draft: any large working horse breed that pulls wagons or equipment
Animal Facts
Shoulder Height: 58-72 inches
Weight: 850 – 2400 pounds; 1000 pounds is average
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Number of births per pregnancy: 1 foal
Taxonomic Category
Mammal, hoofed
