The Yili is a small horse from the north-western Xinjiang region of China.

Yili
Country of originChina
Traits
Distinguishing featuresSmall horse breed used for riding, draft, meat and milk. Developed from Russian and Mongolian stock

Characteristics

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They are compact in conformation with a light head and straight profile. The withers are well pronounced and the back is short and strong, though the loin is long. The legs are clean.[1] Yili horses are normally bay, chestnut, black or gray[2] and are an average height of 14 hands high.[1]

Breed history

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Yili horses originated around 1900 from Russian breeds (Kazakh Horses) crossed with Mongolian stock from Inner Mongolei.[2] Don, and Don-Thoroughbred crosses as well as Orlov Trotters were used from 1936 on to improve the native horses. In 1963 the decision was made to aim for a draft-type horse.[1]

Uses

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Yili horses are used for riding and driving, and also bred for their meat and milk.[2]

References

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  1. ^ a b c "Yili". Horse Breeds of the World. International Museum of the Horse. Retrieved November 21, 2010.
  2. ^ a b c "Yili Horse". Breeds of Livestock. Oklahoma State University. Retrieved November 21, 2010.