A grey horse is a horse of any breed with a coat color of grey. The grey color is the result of a genetic mutation that produces a dilution of the horse’s black pigments, resulting in a lighter color. Grey horses are often referred to as “silver” horses, due to their metallic sheen. Grey horses come in many shades, ranging from light to dark. Grey horses can be found in many breeds, including Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Morgans, and Quarter Horses.
The Different Shades of Grey Horses
Grey horses can come in many shades, from light to dark. The colors range from a light silver-grey to a charcoal-black. Some of the common shades include:
- Dapple Grey: A light grey color with white flecks.
- Fleabitten Grey: A light to medium grey color with dark flecks.
- Steel Grey: A medium to dark grey color.
- Mouse Grey: A dark grey color with a brownish cast.
- Grullo: A dark grey color with a bluish cast.
Do Grey Horses Stay Grey?
The simple answer is yes, grey horses stay grey. The grey color is a genetic mutation that is passed on from parent to offspring, so grey horses will remain grey throughout their lives. The grey color will not change or fade over time.
However, grey horses can appear to change color due to the presence of white hairs or “greying out” as the horse ages. White hairs are common in grey horses and can cause the horse to appear lighter in color. Greying out, or the loss of pigment in the coat, is a natural part of the aging process and can cause the horse to appear lighter in color.
Grey Horse Genetics
Grey horses are born from two grey-colored parents. The grey gene is a dominant gene, meaning if one parent is grey, the offspring will be grey. This is why grey horses are often bred together to produce more grey horses.
The grey gene is also a recessive gene, meaning if one parent is not grey, the offspring may still be grey. For example, a black horse and a grey horse can produce a grey offspring. This is because the black horse carries the recessive grey gene, which can be passed on to the offspring.
Testing for Grey
There are two simple tests that can be done to determine if a horse is grey or not. The first is a DNA test, which can determine if a horse has the grey gene. The second is a coat color test, which can determine if the horse has grey hairs in its coat.
DNA Testing
DNA testing is the most accurate way to determine if a horse is grey or not. The test will determine if the horse has the gene responsible for the grey color. The test is simple and can be done at any equine laboratory.
Coat Color Testing
The second test is a coat color test, which looks for grey hairs in the coat. Grey hairs are common in grey horses and can be easily spotted. This test is less accurate than the DNA test, but it is still a useful tool to determine if a horse is grey or not.
Conclusion
Grey horses are unique and beautiful animals. They are born with a genetic mutation that results in a grey coat color, and this color will remain the same throughout their lives. Grey horses can be found in many breeds, and they come in many shades, ranging from light to dark. Grey horses can be tested for their color, either through DNA testing or a coat color test. Grey horses will always stay grey, no matter what.