Concept in Definition ABC

The word mare comes from the Latin equa, the feminine name of horse (equus). It should be noted, on the other hand, that equus is a classical Latin word that, with the passage of time, changed to caballus in vulgar Latin.

In certain social contexts, in Latin America, it is used in a derogatory way towards women, as an insult. In the case of Argentina, it has become popular as part of the strategypolitics-media in reference to former president Cristina Kirchner from her fervent opponents.

Mares overview

When they are in a period of heat or estrus, it is usual for them to have a different behavior. During the days of heat the mare is predisposed to a sexual encounter with the stallion.

Breeders who are dedicated to reproduction Horses take special care of the females, since the preservation of the species depends on them.

Thoroughbred horses of English origin are the result of a unique mix: mother mares crossed with stallions of other breeds.

The gestation period lasts between eleven and twelve months depending on the equine breed. If the calf or foal is born earlier than expected, its chances of

survival they are very small. As a general guideline, mothers have only one calf per birth.

During the first weeks of life the foals are very close to their mothers and breeders know that during this initial stage it is recommended that both remain together. In this sense, if the foal is weaning prematurely, it is likely that the horse will develop a conduct aggressive (experts consider that nine months of life would be the ideal time to start weaning).

In equestrian competitions

In horse racing, the percentage of males is higher than that of females. This difference has an explanation: the male has a greater wingspan and this circumstance affects the length of his stride and the velocity of the career.

Despite this, in the history of racing there have been thoroughbred mares that have starred in great successes. In show jumping competitions, mares are rated better than horses.

In Greek mythology

In the narration of the twelve works of Heracles this hero has to overcome all kinds of difficulties to redeem himself from his crimes, since he had killed his wife and children after a fit of fury. In the eighth job he had to capture the four mares of Diomedes, who were especially feared because they fed on human flesh.

In the best known version of the myth, it is said that Heracles managed to subdue the mares by offering them the meat of their owner, King Diomedes. After this moment the aggressive beasts lost their ferocity and became gentle mares.

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