General Philosophy & Goals:
Type, temperament, intelligence, willingness, and hardiness are characteristics that get high priority in our selection process. In order to maintain these, breeding stock at Tachara is generally kept in natural pasture settings, given standard farrier care, and we prefer natural and holistic approaches wherever feasible. Feed is primarily pasture and grass hay with salt, mineral, selenium, and when appropriate, flax and garlic supplementation.
This approach has served us well. Over the years we have not had a single colic or founder, no illnesses, and no injuries beyond the occasional minor nicks and scrapes horses at pasture encounter.
Horses that require intensive science in breeding or foaling are generally eliminated from our herd so that we do not perpetuate any breeding problems in the gene pool. We breed all three Caspian types: the taller Hunter, the unique Steppe, and the exotic Desert type. As one type is not more important than another; we celebrate and support the characteristic differences. This keeps the genetic diversity of our endangered breed healthy. Our ultimate goal is to support the integrity of the ancient Caspian breed, keeping it as it has been, while breeding horses according to the Caspian breed standard guidelines. We also strive to educate the general horse public to the exquisite and unique talents of the Caspian Horse.
Stallions:
The stallions at Tachara offer a wide variety of bloodlines. Some of our bloodlines are more rare than others, such as FelFel*, Shirine*, Alamara*, and Anahita*. However, variety supports genetic diversity, which is particularly important for endangered breeds like the Caspian, so all bloodlines are important. The overall object is to share the diversity of our bloodlines to help widen the health and diversity of the Caspian gene pool.
Stallions are typically kept either in bachelor herds or with their respective mares for the season as we favor pasture breeding (rather than hand breed) whenever feasible. This makes for happier and more savvy stallions as nature intended.
Mares:
While we have put together a wide variety of quality bloodlines to conserve the genetic diversity of the Caspian breed, we do put special emphasis on the FelFel*, Shirine*, and Anahita* bloodlines in our program. Our mares are selected to produce quality in type, temperament, and movement and must exhibit good mothering skills. Mares generally foal out in the pastures and raise their babies in the company of the herd or a select "auntie" or two. Most breedings take place as pasture breedings as nature intended.
Foals:
Foals are not sold in-utero. While we do put serious buyers on a waiting list, we prefer to evaluate each foal on an individual basis before offering them to individuals. This allows us to assess quality and match suitability to prospective owners. Foals are evaluated and priced at approximately 30 days. Inquiries are invited and deposits are not required to secure your placement on our Call-Back list. All sales and waiting lists are first come, first serve.
Tachara - What's In A Name?
Tachara takes its name from the roots of antiquity. In the late 6th century BC during the reign of King Darius when Persepolis was established as one of the ancient capitals of Persia. Its ruins lie in the mountainous region of present day south-western Iran.
Apadana, the audience hall, was the largest building at Persepolis, Archaeologists estimate that it could accommodate 10,000 people. Beyond the Apadana lay the Palaces of Darius and Xerxes. The Palace of Darius was called Tachara, an elaborate structure decorated with reliefs of servants carrying animals and food for serving at the king's table.
In 330 BC, Alexander the Great sacked and destroyed the magnificent palaces of Persepolis by setting fire to it, leaving only the ruins we see today. Greek biographer Plutarch wrote that the wealth of the city was so great it took 20,000 mules and 5,000 camels to carry away the treasure looted from Persepolis.
We are always ready at Tachara to talk horses. Whether you are interested in buying or learning more about the breed, we'll be glad to answer your questions or help you find the resources you need. The more you learn about the Caspian horse before you buy, the more informed choices you can make.
Victoria Tollman, owner
130 Lumber Plant Road
Lowgap, North Carolina 27024
BroughHillfarm@yahoo.com
