The Kiger Mustang Horse was discovered in 1977 during a standard Mustang roundup in Oregon. During the exercise, a particular cross-section of horses was noticed and picked out for having unique coloring and markings. DNA testing at the University of Kentucky was conducted and confirmed a close relationship to Spanish horses brought over with the Conquistadors. As a result, the horses were separated and placed in HMAs, or Horse Management Areas, in an attempt to preserve the breed. Twenty of these horses were placed in the Kiger Horse Management Area, the namesake of the modern Kiger Mustang.

The Kiger is mostly dun in color and often exhibits primitive markings such as a dorsal stripe, that is a stripe of darker hair running down the back. It can also display two-toned manes, or zebra markings on the legs and shoulders. The chest is deep and the back is short and broad. The ears are pointed and the mane and tail are flowing and voluminous.

Overall, the Kiger is a powerful breed known for its boldness and courage. They are agile, surefooted, and exhibit great stamina. And though derived from feral stock, the Kiger is easily tamed and often used for pleasure and trail riding thanks to its confidence and grace.

Today, the Kiger Mustang, sometimes known as the Kiger Mesteno, has bred true for generations and has exhibited a particular type and is, therefore, an established breed. There are approximately 500 registered horses and the breed is growing. All registered horses must be able to trace their ancestry back to the Kiger horse Management Area.

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Kiger Mustang - Horses for Sale