The exact origin of Siskei (also known as Desert Gaiter) horses is still unknown. The history documentation is lacking information, but the earliest premises trace back to dry terrains, that made them evolutionary adaptive to hot temperatures and rugged terrain. It is believed that Siskei horses share ancestors with Arabian and Akhal-Teke horses. The conformation of this breed is perfect for endurance in harsh environment. The sleek and durable silhouette reflect years of natural selection in challenging desert landscape.In old times, thanks to unusual appearance, Siskei were so admired that they were commonly used as a luxury parade horse among the elite. With it’s graceful gait and unusual appearance, it became a symbol of prestige and was often seen near the kings and nobles.
But not only the beauty of Siskei was so admired. Thanks to high level of endurance and great performance on long distances, Siskei proved itself as a perfect messenger horse.
Golden, silver and gemstone beads strung on the hair under the ears are a traditional decoration of this breed. The more the beads, the more esteemed and loved the horse was. Once strung, it stayed there forever, even after the horses death. It was believed that with these beads, the horse could feel its owners love even in the afterlife. These beads have been found in many ancient graves.
As civilization advanced, the role of messenger horses diminished, which has led to smaller demand for the breed. Not being this useful anymore, the Siskei population experienced a significant reduction. During this time, the Siskei became the song of the past. Along with the societal and civilizational changes, the breed faced the threat of extinction.
Fortunately, the formation of the Siskei Horse Association marked a turning point. Dedicated to preserving the breed, the association did all it could to revive the population and bring the breed back to it’s glory. Through selective breeding initiatives and steady determination, the Siskei Horse Association successfully revitalized the breed, ensuring its survival. Today, thanks to the hard work of association, the Siskei breed is still alive, though it still needs a lot of work to bring the breed back to the great place.
Siskei breed is known as a versatile and dependable partner, especially favored for trail riding and endurance competitions. Thanks to their exceptional condition and smooth movement, these horses are especially known for competing long distances. Siskei’s unusually long tail helps them with each movement. This feature serves as a counterweight, helping the horse stay balanced even in the most challenging terrain. This combination of physical traits make Siskei a champion of the trails.In the world of long-distance running, the Siskei is supreme, Their strength, agility and endurance makes them worthy competitors.
Their endurance and stamina make them ideal mounts for riders that enjoy challenging trail rides on tough terrain. Whether navigating forest trails, climbing mountain paths, or crossing vast open plains, the Siskei proves itself again and again as a reliable partner.
While trail riding and endurance events remain their main thing, some breed enthusiasts are exploring the potential of Siskei horses in other disciplines such as dressage or showjumping. With their good movement and athletic build, they show themselves in these disciplines, but their true power still lies in their adaptation to rugged terrains and long distances.
All you need are two breeding slots: one from a mare and one from a stallion. You can use your own horses, but you can also cut a deal with another breeder!
A mare has one slot per breeding season. Stallions have 3 slots per season, to avoid flooding the population with one ancestor.
Because the breed is still rare and the Association works hard on estabilishing their population, a lot of Siskei horses are brought from desert to enlarge the genetic pool.
You can buy Siskei from one of breeders who has foals / horses for sale.
All Siskei graphics on this website are made by the breed founder, Thouve, unless stated otherwise. Photomanipulations are made with Pexels stock photos and are used for getting the website more immersive and fun to look at.
