Like many of the feral horses found in the US, Santa Cruz Island Horses are the feral descendants of domestic animals brought to the island.
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Over the 18th and 19th centuries Spanish Colonial<\/a> horses were imported onto Santa Cruz for largely agricultural purposes. They were kept semi-feral and as the domestic need for them dwindled in the early 20th century, it seems they were left to their own devices. Over time, this allowed nature to select the strongest animals and today they are distinctly different genetically from other Spanish Colonial types found in the US.<\/p>\n During the late 20th century the small feral herd was removed from the island, angering many of the locals. Today their numbers are very low and the type has persisted through the private breeders who keep the genetics alive. <\/p>\n Average height 13.2\u201315 hands Head has a straight or convex profile Generally chestnut<\/a>, bay<\/a>, palomino<\/a> or buckskin<\/a><\/p>\n Calm and brave<\/p>\n BreedingFeatures<\/h3>\n
\nDiminished flight response<\/p>\nPhysique<\/h3>\n
\nForehead is broad
\nNeck is short and thick
\nBody is deep
\nTail is low set
\nHindquarters are muscular
\nLegs are short and sturdy
\nHooves are strong<\/p>\nTraditional Colors<\/h3>\n
Temperament<\/h3>\n
Use<\/h3>\n
\nRiding
\nSport<\/p>\nVideo<\/h3>\n