Intro
The Boerperd is a South African breed, but the type was locally adapted in neighboring Botswana.
Origins
Boerperd animals date back to the mid 17th century when the first horses were imported to the Cape colony. These animals were Arabian Berber horses, a hardy and high energy breed. The herd was small enough that inbreeding was a problem until a boat full of Persian Arabian horses got stuck off the coast and were added to the herd. This was the foundation of Boerperd lineage. Over the next 150 years there was little outside influence aside from Thoroughbred.
The Boer Wars solidified the type we think of today, using foundation mares and imported Flemish, Hackney, Norfolk Trotter and Cleveland Bay stallions. The wars took a toll on their numbers as British soldiers took to shooting them in the hopes of eliminating a Boer advantage. If not before, it is likely during this time that some of them slipped away over the border to find a home in Botswana.
There is not much information about the Botswana type, but they are listed in the DAD-IS as locally adapted in the country. Their status is at risk.
Features
Average height 14 – 16 hands
Physique
Head has flat forehead, with a straight or slightly concave profile
Eyes are prominent
Neck is average length and well-formed
Legs are strong, dry and muscular
Hooves are hard and sound
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Brave and intelligent
Calm and ambitious
Use
Agriculture work
Endurance horse