The Bosnian Mountain Horse, an indigenous breed from Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), has for decades been on the verge of extinction. However, thanks to the dedicated work of experts, breeders, and enthusiasts of this unique species, the breed is successfully recovering and once again taking its place in domestic livestock farming and collective memory.
On the Sutalo family estate in the settlement of Boljuni, near Hutovo Blato, around 20 Bosnian Mountain Horses gallop today. These horses are raised in a natural environment, with much attention and respect.
“What characterizes it and distinguishes it from other breeds is the almost unnecessary role of a veterinarian. It is very resistant to diseases, immune, modest in nutrition, strong in temperament, and has a robust exterior,” explained Bosko Sutalo, the owner of the stud farm.
Once an indispensable part of everyday life in many BiH villages, this horse today symbolizes the fight for the preservation of tradition and identity. However, the rapid modernization and mechanization of agriculture and forestry during the 1960s almost pushed it out of domestic areas.
“With the beginning of road construction and the increasing use of mechanization, the Bosnian Mountain Horse began to lose its value, and thus its numbers,” recalls hippologist Enver Ziga.
Until a few years ago, this breed was classified as critically endangered, with fewer than 200 individuals. Today, the number has risen to 327, and the goal is to reach 500 by 2028.
“We are working intensively to preserve the horse from oblivion and extinction. We have succeeded in that – the horse is no longer critically endangered as it was seven or eight years ago,” confirmed Zaklina Mezbur from the Association of Breeders and Lovers of the Bosnian Mountain Horse.
Additional momentum to this goal has been provided by systematic support through various forms of assistance.
“Optimal conditions have been created so that breeding is financially and veterinary-health supported. These privileges have encouraged existing breeders to increase the number of horses, and new breeders have also joined,” stated Abdulah Imamovic, president of the Equestrian Federation of BiH.
A key role in ensuring the quality and authenticity of the breed is also played by DNA analysis, which enables controlled and professionally guided breeding.
“Just as we prove paternity in humans, we do the same with horses. Horses that are accepted members of the breed receive DNA confirmation of their origin, which prevents abuse and makes it easier for breeders to prove the authenticity of their horse,” explained genetics expert Rijad Konjhodzic.
Thanks to genetic analyses, it has also been confirmed that the Bosnian Mountain Horse is closely related to the original European wild horses, further confirming its value and significance.
Although new technologies and the accelerated pace of life have pushed them to the margins, the Bosnian Mountain Horses have not disappeared. The people who remember them are preserving them today. And together with them, they are preserving a part of the identity of BiH.
