Natural rearing at Fohlenhof Ebbs - The path to becoming a Tyrolean Haflinger stallion

Since 1947, the Haflinger Horse Breeding Association Tyrol has been rearing its young stallions together in a large herd at the traditional Fohlenhof Ebbs and on the associated Tyrolean alpine pastures. Every year, around 50 young Haflinger stallions - from foal age to the age of three - are kept in a unique natural environment.

The centrepiece of this species-appropriate rearing is the common alpine pasture for at least six months per year. These conditions - with movement in the herd, natural weather and unspoilt surroundings - prepare the Tyrolean stallions optimally for their later role in breeding.

Every year, geneticwise the 25 best Haflinger colts out of all 7 bloodlines are selected from the entire association area. The selection takes place in several stages:

• First selection in May at foaling
• Preview in August
• Final selection of the stallion candidates in October

These stallions are then reared together until their licensing at the age of three, which traditionally takes place on the first Saturday in February. In the winter months, three cohorts always live together in large loose stables, in the summer - between licensing and new recruitment - two.

This form of husbandry is not only species-appropriate and in keeping with the nature of the herd animal horse, but is also the basis for the exceptional quality of Tyrolean Haflinger stallions. They retain their natural character traits, develop sure-footedness, stamina, hardiness, resistance and impressive health - characterised by the harsh but natural living conditions at over 1,200 m above sea level.

Natural meadows full of herbs grow on the original alpine pastures, which have not been fertilised since they were purchased by the association over 60 years ago. Rocky terrain, steep forest slopes with a wide variety of trees and frequent changes in the weather - with frosty nights and temperature fluctuations of up to 30 degrees during the day - promote dexterity, robustness and adaptability.

The animals experience real nature there: The onset of winter, snow conditions and encounters with chamois are part of everyday life. The hierarchy battles in the herd have a lasting effect on their character.

This consistent rearing close to nature makes the Haflinger stallions from Fohlenhof Ebbs a real trademark of Tyrolean horse breeding. Not only the breeding line, but also the rearing conditions determine the later breeding success - a claim that the association has been living up to for decades.

The protected "Edelweiss brandy", inspired by the alpine flower of the high mountains, is a visible symbol of this quality and exclusivity.

This natural but demanding rearing is standard for almost all Tyrolean Haflingers - including those offered at auctions. It guarantees well-balanced, healthy horses with a strong character in a class of their own, both for breeding and as reliable leisure partners.