Horse Breeds: Abaco Barb

The Abaco Barb is one of the rarest of breeds and is in danger of extinction. These beautiful horses are descended from Spanish horses in use during the time of Christopher Columbus and is considered one of the most noble breeds. The only known herd in existence is located on the conservation area on the Bahaman Island of Great Abaco. They are typically bay, brown, or pinto in color and stand 13.2 to 14.2 hands high.

These horses are thought to have come to North America on board ships bound for the New World with the very first Spanish explorers. Many, if not most, of these ships never reached the New World, often being lost at sea or pirated before they could reach the safety of land. However, some of the horses did eventually make it to the island of Great Abaco. Today, the only remaining herd is still where the breed has survived for centuries.

Like many of the Spanish breeds, the Abaco Barb has a low-set tail, convex face, and a long and beautiful mane and tail. Pointed ears are the standard for the Abaco Barb as are broad tapering foreheads. Though small, these horses are exceptionally strong, though they were not typically used for pulling when they still populated Spain.

These horses are more than just lovely to behold. Abaco Barbs are unique in that they have only five lumbar vertebrae, unlike most other breeds. New reserach has also discovered a difference in the Wing of Atlas. This is the first bone in the neck adjacent to the skull