A female horse that is at least 4 years of age is referred to as?

A female horse that is at least 4 years of age is referred to as a mare. In equine terminology, a mare is typically an adult female horse, usually defined as being over three years old, and most commonly used to refer to those that are four years of age or older. This classification is important in the context of breeding and performance, as mature mares often have different roles, health considerations, and management needs compared to younger horses.

Understanding the distinctions between the terms for different equine types is crucial in the study of animal science. A filly, for example, specifically denotes a young female horse that is typically under four years old. Meanwhile, the terms colt and gelding refer to male horses; a colt is a young male horse, whereas a gelding is a neutered male. Recognizing these definitions helps in better understanding horse breeding, training, and care practices.