Colour question

[alainax]

Just a musing really. Black fell pony, 7 years old. Either one or both of his parents were grey ( I'll need to check that).

His winter coat is all black. Black mane and tail. But now his summer coat is in he has load of grey hair, almost like a very very weak roan effect. Only over his back, flanks and quarters.

Is this just a quirk of having grey parents? I'm just curious

Thanks!

 

[DabDab]

Photos are required surely
(I'm a sucker for a dales)

 

[alainax]

Some photos

 

[Wagtail]

It doesn't look like he's turning grey, more like just ticking. This can be caused by a number of genes.

 

[PingPongPony]

Just ticking Ticking hasn't been mapped yet I believe, but it can occur on any horse whether it has a grey parent or not

 

[peanut]

It doesn't look like he's turning grey, more like just ticking. This can be caused by a number of genes.

What's ticking please?

My black horse gets loads of white flecks in spring and autumn when her coat is changing but is pure black when coats (both winter and summer) are fully in.

Lovely fell pony - love them

 

[tda]

In dales ponies it's called Iron in the Black

 

[Clodagh]

In dales ponies it's called Iron in the Black

I like that.

 

[alainax]

That's really interesting thank you for the replies!