Nigerian and Bhirum

Of national importance, the Nigerian is a mesomorphic type pony. The Nigerian Pony takes it name from its place of origin and geographical distribution - Nigeria. It has an aptitude for riding and as a light pack pony, as well as light draft. It has a strong quality and willing and docile temperament.

The Nigerian stands an average of 14 to 14.1 hands (1.42-1.44 m) high at the withers, and has a coat that may be any color. Its head is quite flat, having a straignt profile and small pricked ears. Its rather short neck is not striking, and its withers are quite pronounced. Its shoulder slopes nicely and is well-shaped, and its girth is quite deep. The short, straight back has a sloping croup. It has strong legs of medium length, and its feet are of strong horn. It has a compact and pleasing appearance, but the hindquarters appear weak and poorly developed.

It is believed that the Nigerian is descended from the Barb brought to Nigeria by nomadic tribes, and is indicated by the markedly sloping croup. WIth more the appearance of a horse, the Nigerian is at the upper limits of the pony category.

In the northern regions of Nigeria, a dwarf breed, known as the Bhirum, is found. Whether this is the same breed as the Nigerian is not known, but it probably has similar origins.

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© Copyright 1999-2002 NorthWest Breyer Horse Club.
Published August 2000, August 2001 in the North West Breyer Horse Club newsletter. (em)

Animated horse-drawn wagon © 1997-2007 NW Breyer Horse Club
& Refiner of Gold Creations

Equinealities in place since 1997,
Section in place 2001,
Updated 3/13/2007
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