The Bedford Estates, London
Overview
The Przewalski’s horse is a rare and endangered subspecies of the wild horse. It was once extinct in the wild but thankfully due to successful captive breeding programmes and reintroduction programmes Przewalski horses can once again be found roaming within national parks throughout Mongolia. Reintroduction efforts are also active in China, Kazakhstan and Ukraine.
The herd of Przewalski horses at Woburn Safari Park can be found grazing in a large paddock near the main entrance of the safari drive through.
All about us
| Distribution: | Mongolia. Reintroductions are active in China, Kazakhstan and Ukraine |
|---|---|
| Habitat: | Steppe and semi desert |
| Height: | 120- 150cm |
| Weight: | 250-300kg |
| Gestation Period: | 11 months |
| Lifespan: | 25 years |
| Threats: | Hunting by humans and the domestication of the species |
About us
Scientific name: Equus ferus przewalskii
Przewalski horses live in two types of social groups: A harem group, which contains a stallion and no more than ten adult females and their offspring and bachelor groups, which contain only males.
Their behaviour patterns are very similar to that of feral horses. The stallions are very protective of their family groups and will defend all members of their family. However the mare will often display signs of leadership within the group. Stallions and mares stay with their preferred partners for many years.
Przewalski horses are of a stocky build and have shorter legs compared to the domesticated horse. Their manes stick upright and they have long tails that grow up to 90cm long. Their coats are a light brown, dun colour and they have a long dark strip along their backs. They do not have a forelock (fringe) like the domesticated horse.
