An odd Similarity between Jackrabbits and Horses

Horses and Jackrabbits have more in common than you would think. Read this article to find out more.

Jeremy Ricketts
Jeremy Ricketts Posted on 7 January 2023
1 Min Read Horse Racing

In 1878 Eadweard Muybridge proved that galloping horses have a moment of suspension when all four feet are off the ground. Eadweard used high-speed frames to show each stage of a horse’s movement, and these early shots were the start of the film industry we know today.

 

Eadweard had a somewhat colourful personality. He was acquitted for murdering his wife’s lover, as the court decreeing the act as justifiable homicide.

 

The former California Governor Leland Stanford actually financed Muybridge’s photographic experiments and paid him $50.000 to do so. This was a fortune and the equivalent of over $1million pounds by today’s standards.

Horse Racing

The moment a Horse is off the Ground

Look closely at the middle thoroughbred and you will see that he is off the ground. This middle horse is in the moment of suspension.

Jackrabbit

Comparing a Horse to a Jackrabbit

Jackrabbits (hares) also have moments of suspension when they are in full flight. 

 

- This Mad March hare is in full flight with no part of his body touching the ground.

Jeremy Ricketts

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Hello, I'm the resident writer here at The Rideout. I've been riding horses for the best part of... well my entire life! Over the years of owning, riding, competing and looking after horses I've built up a small wealth of information.

This site owes tribute to my many hours spent in and out of the saddle learning about the behaviours, needs, and quirks of these amazing animals. From basic care and grooming to advanced training techniques, I've honed my skills through years of hands-on experience.

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