Wild horse of Souli population increased

Τhe population of the wild horses of Souli who live free on the mountains of Epirus has increased within six years by 120 percent. This increase has been mainly achieved due to the good weather conditions. According to the latest census the wild horses now number 110 from 49 recorded in 2005.   The wild life of the Souli horses began in the '50s when a large number of farmers abandoned the area and their animals and migrated. The horses, in order to survive, took refuge in the mountains in search of food.   A second 'abandonment' was recorded when the locals stopped using the horses for transportation and turned to cars.   The Greek wild horses derive from the "Balkan horse" which developed into the mountain and the plain type. The Souli horse belongs to the Pindus tribe which is the best representative of the mountain type as it has not been crossbred. These horses' height ranges from 1.15 -1.25 meters and their distinctive characteristics are a straight back, long tail and rich mane.