The white horse is a majestic and beautiful creature, beloved by many. But have you ever wondered why a white horse is sometimes called “grey”? The answer lies in the horse’s coat color and genetics. In this article, we will take a closer look at why a white horse is sometimes referred to as “grey” and explore the various shades and nuances of white horses.
What is a White Horse?
When it comes to horses, the terms “white” and “grey” are often used interchangeably. However, white horses have a distinct color that sets them apart from other horses. White horses have a light-colored coat, generally made up of white hairs, with little to no pigment. They may have a few spots, but they are not considered to be gray or roan.
White horses are not albinos, and they do not have any of the genetic disorders associated with albinism. They are also not a breed, but rather a color pattern. White horses can be found in a variety of breeds, including Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Quarter Horses, and Icelandic Horses, to name a few.
Why is a White Horse Called Grey?
So why is a white horse sometimes referred to as “grey”? The answer lies in the horse’s coat color. White horses have a light-colored coat, generally made up of white hairs, with little to no pigment. As the horse ages, the white hairs can start to grey, giving the horse a dappled, or “grey”, appearance. This is why white horses are sometimes referred to as “grey”.
The Different Shades of White
White horses come in a variety of shades and nuances, from very light ivory to almost black. The shade of white can depend on the breed of horse, as well as its age and genetics. Some breeds of horses, such as the Arabian, tend to have a more ivory-colored coat, while others, such as the Friesian, tend to have a darker hue.
The shade of white a horse has can also depend on its age. Young horses tend to have lighter coats, while older horses can have coats that are darker and more dappled. Additionally, some horses may have a gene that causes their coats to darken as they age, resulting in a darker shade of white.
A Horse’s Genetics
The color of a horse’s coat is determined by its genetics. For example, a horse can have a gene for white, which means that it will always have a white coat regardless of its age or breed. Additionally, a horse can have a gene for grey, which means that its coat will start to grey as it ages.
In some cases, a horse may have a combination of both genes, which can result in a coat that is a mixture of white and grey. This is why white horses are sometimes referred to as “grey”.
Conclusion
White horses are beautiful creatures, beloved by many. But why is a white horse sometimes called “grey”? The answer lies in the horse’s coat color and genetics. As the horse ages, its white hairs can start to grey, giving the horse a dappled, or “grey”, appearance. Additionally, a horse can have a gene for grey, which means that its coat will start to grey as it ages. White horses come in a variety of shades and nuances, from very light ivory to almost black, depending on the breed, age, and genetics of the horse.