Horse Color Explored

Book excerpt: Everyone stops and stares at a horse with a beautiful or unusual color. So striking are the variations of bay, gray, chestnut, black, solid, and spotted that many people breed for specific combinations. This has led to a marked increase in international interest in the study of horse color genetics—as well as a need for an easy-to-use reference suitable for the layperson who also wants to understand the science behind it all. In these pages, horsewoman and genetics specialist Vera Kurskaya puts forward a guide that aims to not only provide basic information about horse color appropriate for a general audience, but also explore the specifics of inheritance and recent color genetics research certain to inform serious aficionados worldwide. With 200+ color photographs in handy reference sections throughout, as well as an in-depth look at special hair features, the evolution of horse color, and the effect of color on performance, fertility, and character, Horse Color Explored is a fascinating and valuable resource for the modern horseperson.