'The brede of good & strong Horsis': zooarchaeological evidence for size change in horses from early modern London

Almost 200 horse bone measurements from 38 sites excavated across the city of London, dating to the period AD 1220–1900 were analysed. Results identified three main phases of size change: a reduction in size in the mid 14th to 15th century, and size increases in the mid 15th to 16th century and the 17th century. The decline in size testifies to the disruption of horse breeding in the wake of the Black Death, whilst the increases reflect purposeful attempts to increase the size of horses in England through a combination of regulated breeding and the importation of new bloodlines

PRESERVATION OF THE SPANISH HORSE IN NORTH AMERICA

SUMMARYRemnants of the vast populations of Spanish horses in North America are currently being registered and bred by a number of breed organizations. The number of foals registered yearly is around 100 individuals. As this number is widely spread geographically and not closely related, the genetic outlook for the breed is good. Blood group studies have not been done, but evidence from coat colour aliele frequencies suggests that the claim to purity and uniqueness compared with other North American breeds is valid.</jats:p

Characterization and conservation of the American Milking Devon

SummaryThe American Milking Devon Association was established in 1978 to record and preserve a unique type of cattle originally developed in the United States in the 17th century from imported English and contemporary American stocks. Phenotypically, it exhibits a spectrum of red colour, with light-coloured curved horns and medium body size. The breed is one of the few remaining triple-purpose breeds in the United States, and has been selected by breeders since colonial times for excellent temperament and powerful draught ability, along with desirable dairy and beef characteristics. It is well adapted to low-input management schemes and harsh environments. The American Milking Devon is currently found on the ‘critical’ list of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, indicating that there are fewer than 200 new registrations annually. Since the inception of the American Milking Devon Association, a small group of dedicated breeders has done much to preserve these cattle. However, new management tools are now being introduced to assist breeders and allow conservation of genetic diversity while retaining the original breed traits in terms of size, colour, beef and dairy production, and character and working ability.</jats:p

Navajo-Churro sheep and wool in the United States

SummaryNavajo-Churro sheep have been part of the subsistence of three cultures in the Southwest of the United States for over 400 years. These cultures include Navajo (a Native American nation), Hispanic and Anglo. The Navajo-Churro breed nearly became extinct in the 1950s to 1970s, but farsighted conservation programmes were then begun which involved all three cultures in saving this unique breed. Navajo-Churro sheep are a distinctive double-coated Criollo breed. The fleece type is superbly suited to the textiles produced in the local region and which are famous throughout the United States for their unique qualities and cultural relevance. A registry system involving ongoing inspection of each generation assures that the type remains traditional. Census numbers are now close to 3000 head as the breed moves beyond its original homeland to become more widely established throughout the United States.</jats:p