164 THE BREEDS OF LIVE-STOCK 
Thoroughbred or the Arabian horses. These still 
are known as Broncos, although in recent years they are 
more commonly termed ‘‘ cow ponies,” from the use that 
is made of them in herding arid driving cattle on the 
ranges. 
191. The Bronco. — The Broncos, like all horses in a 
semi-wild state, have good constitutions, and the best 
of feet, but because of inbreeding and want of selection, 
they may not be good in general conformation. “In 
general, the Bronco is an exceedingly hardy, wiry little 
horse, possessed of considerable endurance. In the best 
types the head is small, clean-cut and refined, with 
bright, piercing eyes, small ears and attractive appear- 
ance, although many individuals have ill-formed heads. 
The neck of the better class is of medium length, well 
crested and very well carried. The body is short, deep 
and muscular. Broncos are frequently ridden day 
after day for weeks at a time, without shoes, over the 
rough, rocky soil, carrying a heavy man and a cumbersome 
stock saddle (Plate V). They weigh approximately 
850 pounds, and are possessed of enormous strength for 
their size and weight.” (W. L. Carlyle.) 
These ponies of the Southwest, as a rule, do not exceed 
thirteen and one-half or fourteen hands in height unless 
cross-bred. Some of them are handsome, graceful crea- 
tures, but they do not compare favorably with the best 
American horses, or with imported European ponies, nor 
are they as good as the more northern Indian pony. 
They stand a great deal of hard work, however, and if 
broken young, can be made very serviceable. It is 
to be regretted that this race of exceedingly useful and 
picturesque animals is decreasing, as a result of the demand 
for a larger and more fleet horse by the cowmen which 
