Byshire Horse
The origin of the Byshire Horse dates back to a cold blooded heavy horse native to Bythony, first brought to Monteclees by invaders from more southern climes.
During the Age of Splitters it was essential to increase the size and number of horses called “The Great Horse” in order to carry knights into battle against one another.
Afterward, special attention was directed to the raising and breeding of strong horses, and several laws were passed with that in mind. Acts were passed forbidding the use for breeding of horses under 15 hands in height, also prohibiting all exportation outside of Monteclees.
Basic Information
Dietary Needs and Habits
Grass
The Byshire horse is essentially a grazing animal and young, fresh grass is by far the best and cheapest food.
However, it is a fact of nature that good, nutritious pasture is not available all year round. Therefore, despite its virtues, the horseman cannot rely solely on fresh grass, but must look also to its preserved forms, supplemented as necessary by hard feeds.
Hay
Hay for horses must be good. Mouldy, musty or dusty hay is very dangerous for horses, being likely to cause long-term respiratory problems, and over-ripe hay has little nutritional value. Rather than feeding such hay, it would be far better to feed clean straw (below). Grass for hay should be cut after flowering but before seeding, and should have a wonderful herby smell.
Straw
Long oat straw and chopped hay form an integral part of the working horse’s ration.
Additional Information
Domestication
By definition, the Byshire is a domestic animal.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
The vast majority of Byshires are in Monteclees, but some have been smuggled, traded, lost or adventured into other realms.
Average Intelligence
Byshires are capable of following basic commands and learning tricks. They are largely bred for war and do not shy from blood and death.
Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms
The humans of Monteclees use Byshires as war-horses. Retired members of the species may be put to use in field and farm with little difficulty, though their expense puts them out of reach of most tenant farmers.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
30 years
Average Height
17 hands / 68 inches / 5' 7"
Average Weight
2000 lbs
Average Physique
Byshires are massive beasts, with heavy hooves and a stocky build.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Most Byshires are either Coal, Clouded, or Brown. The majority have cream-colored "socks" along their muzzle and hooves, though this is far from universal.
Geographic Distribution