The Basics
|
Click on the stamp to see
a first-day cover for the issue
|
The Gotland pony is called Russ in it's original home, the island of Gotland, Sweden. The word Russ is derived from the Viking hross, which simply means "horse".
Although they have lived wild on Gotland for thousands of years, Gotland Ponies almost became extinct in tne 1920s following conflict with farmers over destruction of crops and then the meat shortages of World War I. Public attention
saved them however, and today there are about 10,000 of them, mostly in Sweden.
They are a very hardy breed, and stand 45-51 inches at the withers. Most shades of black and brown are acceptable by the breed standard.
They are a very personable breed, although can be stubborn. In Sweden, they are highly valued both as children's ponies, and for their trotting abilities.
In September 1998, a new world record in harness racing for ponies was set by a Gotland pony called Snackan. Ten years old, she trotted 1640 meters (just over a mile) at an average speed of over 22 mph.
The Details
Gotland Russ Association of North America
This comprehensive site has extensive information on the breed.
Gotland Horses
An excellent breed history, report on current status, and 4 photos.
The Gotland Pony
An excellent breed history, as well as photos.
Stall Dalhem Gotland
A guest ranch offering trail rides with Gotland ponies - text is in Swedish.
Related Sites
Gotland Web
Discover the original home of Gotland ponies - this site has 1,000 links with all the information you could possibly want.
All About the Icelandic Horse
A guide to all the best resources.
References & Further Reading:
Björck, G., Everz, K.E., Hansen, H.-J. and Henricson, B., 1973.
Congenital cerebellar ataxia in the Gotland pony breed". Zbl. Vet. Med. [A] 20:341-354.
Russen på Lojsta hed (The Wild Ponies of Gotland), Haakan Hollstroem, Sweden. Translation by Marion Cutting
To
Northern Agriculture Links
To
Northern Animals Links
Stamp scan from the collection of Murray Lundberg
