Arabian mares have always been a source of deep fascination for me.  They are unlike any other creature in the world.  Even among their own species and breed, they are vastly different than the other gender!

Many people are NOT “mare people”, and that is okay!  Many people absolutely love mares, and that is the category I fall in.  

Usually what differentiates mare people and non-mare people is the amount of appreciation one has for the outward display of moods that mares show!  As in, people who are not as fond of mares might not appreciate ears pinned, opinions on everything, heat cycles, etc.  People who are endeared to mares love that they do not have to guess their mare’s mood, and they like the outward and intelligent ‘communication’ that mares offer to us by not hiding their opinions, and value their ability to create life in their wombs. 

To win the loyalty of a mare is like being given a pin that names you, “Hand of the Queen”.  You become her hand, and she becomes yours in what is a truly magical partnership. 

I believe Arabian Mares are a rare and incredible creature because of how the Bedouin people raised, treated, and utilized them.  

It was the mares, and not the stallions that were ridden into their wars.  The mares were bolder and braver.  They were also quieter.  You did not want to be riding a stallion that was nickering and squealing at other horses when you are trying to sneak up on your enemy’s camp! 

Mares were prized above all else.  The best mare of the herd was brought into the tents of their masters, to sleep and rest.   

Mares did not have a price to the Bedouin people, and they could not be bought or sold.  They could only be won in races, which I am sure was an emotionally charged event.  The winner of the race got to pick any herd he wanted from the competitors he just beat.  

This blurb was taken from the website of trowbridgesltd.com, they did not cite who authored it:  

“The Arabian horse was primarily an instrument of war, as were horses in general in most societies of the time. A well mounted Bedouin could attack an enemy tribe and capture their herds of sheep, camels and goats, adding to the wealth of their own tribe. Such a raid was only successful if the aggressors could attack with surprise and speed and make good their escape. Mares were the best mounts for raiding parties, as they would not nicker to the enemy tribe’s horses, warning of their approach. The best war mares exhibited great courage in battle, taking the charges and the spear thrusts without giving ground. Speed and endurance were essential as well, for the raids were often carried out far from the home camp, family and children.”

It is my belief that even our modern Arabian mares, would still be chosen for the most important of tasks, and would be invited to sleep inside.  

Yes, they might be opinionated, and they might make you truly work for their respect and trust, but their loyalty is also very outwardly obvious.  They will try their hearts out for you when you create that bond.  They will push past little pains.  They will often try so hard to please you, that they try to anticipate what you might want and offer it to you before you have asked.  

What are your great experiences with Arabian mares? (Half Arabians too!)  What are your favorite traits?