Intro
The Somali or Wilwal horse are from the Somali lowlands of eastern Ethiopia, previously called Ogaden. Their Wilwal name is thought to have come from a Somali warlord and local governor, Wilwal Farah Hersi, who used them to fight early British colonists.
Origins
Like most Ethiopian breeds, there is little documentation about the Somali and its origins are a mystery. They were said to have been instrumental in Hersi’s campaign against the British. Not only were they used in warfare, but exchanged for information and they helped carry weapons supplied by the Ethiopian government. This is anecdotal, but hopefully some day the history of this breed will be investigated.
More Feral Africa
Before this study in 2012 that provided in-depth breed information about Ethiopia, there were though to be only one true feral horse population in Africa. Today we know there are probably more to be found. On the border between Somalia and Ethiopia, in a place called Aware there is a population that lives feral. This isn’t the only one discovered in Ethiopia and the Kundido horse is another example.
Features
Sound conformation
Heavier horse type for the area
Elegant and large
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Feral animals