Intro
Now extinct, the Lofoten Island Horse is likely a brother to the original ponies native to the Shetland Isles, prior to the influence of outside bloodlines.
Origins
Believed to come from Tarpan lineage, these are tough, hairy little ponies which obviously come from a harsh, northern environment. They lived wild year round on Lofoten Island from which they took their name.
Supposedly the last member of the Lofoten Island Pony was slaughtered in the late 19th century to preserve its body for science. It was stuffed and displayed in the Bergen Museum. Early in the 20th century this hairy little horse was again studied in an attempt to put a date on their ancient bloodlines. They are thought to be an ancestor of the Lyngen Horse.
Features
Average height 13-14 hands
Hair is thick and long
Physique
Head is coarse with a straight profile
Neck is short
Back is short
Legs are stout
Hooves are strong
Traditional Colors
One source says they were ‘white’, another says they are primarily black.
Temperament
Calm and enduring
Use
Riding
Transportation
Light agriculture