Here's why:
* Natural Breeding Cycle: Mares are seasonally polyestrous, meaning they come into heat (estrus) cyclically during specific times of the year. Their natural breeding season aligns with the spring and early summer months.
* Foal Season: Spring breeding allows for foals to be born in the spring or early summer. This timing is ideal because:
* Foals have warmer weather to grow and develop.
* There's ample pasture for grazing.
* Daylight hours are longer, which benefits the foal's health and allows the mare to produce more milk.
* Management: Spring breeding provides time for:
* Mares to recover from winter and gain weight before breeding.
* Breeders to prepare facilities and manage the breeding process.
While spring is the most common, breeding can occur at other times with artificial insemination or hormonal manipulation.