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The Camargue horse is an ancient breed known for its wild beauty and remarkable adaptation to the marshy wetlands of the Camargue region in southern France. These horses are celebrated for their resilience, agility, and free spirit. Characterized by their small stature, rugged build, and predominantly white coat, Camargue horses have lived semi-feral in the Rhône delta for centuries, embodying the essence of freedom and natural grace.
Camargue horses are considered one of the oldest breeds in the world, with their presence in the Camargue region traced back to ancient times. Historical records and cave paintings suggest that these horses have been in the area for thousands of years, serving various roles from war horses in ancient times to working horses in the rice fields and salt marshes of the Camargue today. Their exact origin remains a mystery, adding to the breed’s allure.
The Camargue horse is renowned for its intelligence, stamina, and ability to work in difficult terrain. Despite their small size, typically standing between 135 to 150 cm in height, they are incredibly hardy and agile. Their most distinctive feature is their white coat, which is actually born black or dark brown and lightens as they mature. They have a strong, compact body, large head, and alert expression, reflecting their adaptability and resilience.
Traditionally used for cattle herding and as riding horses, Camargue horses are now also popular in equestrian sports, especially in dressage and show jumping. They are celebrated for their ability to navigate the challenging terrains of their native habitat, making them excellent trail and endurance horses. Their gentle temperament also makes them suitable for therapeutic riding programs.
The Camargue horse is not currently considered endangered, thanks to concerted conservation efforts in the Camargue region. These efforts include habitat preservation and strict breeding programs to maintain the breed’s genetic purity. The breed enjoys a stable population, with several hundred horses living in semi-feral conditions in the Camargue, and more in domestication. The Camargue horse continues to be a symbol of the wild and natural beauty of southern France, with ongoing initiatives to ensure its preservation for future generations.
France
international
stable
135-150 cm
grey
tbd
Rare and local
Kept outdoors all year; free roaming in the marshes
Cheval de Camargue — Camarguais
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Here are some places where you can see where you can support the rare and endangered breed. Above all I want to thank everybody who works with me.
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