Abaco Barb

Overview

The Abaco Barb is famous for being a genetically isolated population for centuries on Abaco Island. Considered possibly the purest strain of Spanish Barb horse that existed in the New World. Tragically, the original population went extinct recently (2015), but there are preservation efforts via cloning and breeding.

Origin & History

Arrived with Spanish explorers and survived shipwrecks. They lived wild in the pine forests of Abaco. Their numbers dropped drastically in the 20th century due to hunting and habitat destruction.

Temperament & Personality

• Wild: Having lived feral, they retain strong survival instincts.
• Toughness: Extremely resistant to adverse conditions.

Physical Characteristics

• Colors: Often pinto (spotted), roan, or solid colors.
• Build: Small but robust, with features typical of the ancient Iberian horse.

Foal Stage

Foals were born in the wild under harsh conditions.

• Development: Rapid to keep up with the herd.

Adult Stage

• Current Status: Today, the term often refers to horses in the restoration project.
• Use: Historically for light work and transport, today a symbol of conservation.

Health & Care

• Hardiness: Very healthy breed adapted to poor diets.

Needs & Routines

• Living History: Taking interest in this breed supports equine genetic history.