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Rare Caspian Horses Back From Brink Of Extinction
There are only 900 Caspian horses left worldwide but the breed, which is often described as a "pony-sized Arabian," is quickly being re-vitalized in the U.S., thanks to breeding programs that began in 1995. With 450 head as of 2004, American-bred Caspians account for about half of all Caspians in the world outside of t
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Rare Caspian Horses Back From Brink Of Extinction AG WORLD 28-6-22 There are only 900 Caspian horses left worldwide but the breed, which is often described as a "pony-sized Arabian," is quickly being re-vitalized in the U.S., thanks to breeding programs that began in 1995. With 450 head as of 2004, American-bred Caspians account for about half of all Caspians in the world outside of their native Iran.
"Horses of this breed are exquisitely refined and elegant," says Austin, Texas breeder Francie Stull, of Kristull Ranch. She and her husband, Chuck, have just over 100 Caspians, making their herd the largest in the world.
"They have a delicate head with the classic dished-face, protruding eyes and wide flaring nostrils," according to Stull. "Caspians also have a pronounced forehead, short ears and a slim and graceful neck. They glide past with a floating action, head and tail held high - poetry in motion."
Stull asserts that the Caspian is a horse, not a pony, because of its perfect proportions and gaits, although it stands only 10 to 12 1/2 hands high. A photo of a Caspian without a person standing beside the horse for perspective, gives the illusion of a much larger Thoroughbred or Arabian, she says.
The main colors are chestnut, bay and gray. Occasionally, a black or buckskin color may appear. Some Caspians carry a dorsal stripe.
Known for their agility, Caspians make superb jumpers. Their size makes them especially suited for children.
"They have great intelligence and courage, and learn very quickly," Stull says.
Caspian horses bring high prices because of their rarity. Generally, a young filly will sell for between $4,000 and $5,000. Colts range from $1,500 to $2,000 and proven brood mares sell for $15,000 to $20,000, depending on quality.
Before they can be registered, every Caspian is DNA tested and microchipped.
Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Kristull Ranch, Chuck and Francie Stull, 8708 Grelle Lane, Austin, Texas 78744 (ph 800 658-6699 or 512 280-1880; email: chuck@ Kristull.com; website: www.caspian horse.com); or The Caspian Horse Society of the Americas, Misty Acton, Registrar,
6109 FM 390 North Brenham, Texas 77833 (ph 979 830-9046 or 979 830-1566; email: chsaregistrar@aol.com; website: www. caspian.org).
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