general

definition of mare

The word mare comes from the Latin equa, the female name for horse (equus). It should be noted, on the other hand, that equus is a classical Latin word that, with the passage of time, changed to caballus in vulgar Latin.

In certain social contexts, in Latin America, it is used in a derogatory way towards women, as an insult. In the case of Argentina, it has been popularized as part of the political-media strategy in reference to former president Cristina Kirchner from her fervent opponents.

Mares overview

When they are in heat or estrus period, they usually have a different behavior. During the days of heat the mare is predisposed to a sexual encounter with the stallion.

The breeders who are dedicated to the reproduction of horses take special care of the females, since the preservation of the species depends on them.

Thoroughbred horses of English origin are the result of a unique mix: mother mares crossed with stallions of other breeds.

The gestation period lasts between eleven and twelve months depending on the equine breed. If the calf or foal is born earlier than expected, its chances of survival are greatly reduced. As a general guideline, mothers have only one calf per birth.

During the first weeks of life the foals are very close to their mothers and breeders know that during this initial stage it is recommended that both remain together. In this sense, if the foal is weaning prematurely, the horse is likely to develop aggressive behavior (experts consider that nine months of life would be the ideal time to start weaning).

In equestrian competitions

In horse racing, the percentage of males is higher than that of females. This difference has an explanation: the male has a greater wingspan and this circumstance affects the width of his stride and the speed of the run.

Despite this, in the history of racing there have been thoroughbred mares that have starred in great successes. In show jumping competitions, mares are rated better than horses.

In Greek mythology

In the narration of the twelve labors of Heracles this hero has to overcome all kinds of difficulties to redeem himself from his crimes, as he had killed his wife and children after a fit of fury. In the eighth job he had to capture the four mares of Diomedes, who were especially feared because they fed on human flesh.

In the best known version of the myth, it is said that Heracles managed to subdue the mares by offering them the meat of their owner, King Diomedes. After this moment the aggressive beasts lost their ferocity and became gentle mares.

Photo Fotolia: marioav

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