Icelandic Horses Rolling. Descendants of horses brought by Viking settlers.

Icelandic horses are the descendants of the horses brought to Iceland by Viking settlers over 1,000 years ago. These horses are considered to be one of the purest horse breeds in the world and have been a central part of Icelandic culture and history.
Here are some things to know about Icelandic horses:
Origin
The horses were likely brought to Iceland by Viking settlers between 860 and 935 AD. The settlers may have chosen their best horses to bring with them, and the horses had to survive the long journey across the Atlantic.
Traits
Icelandic horses are known for their hardiness, energy, intellect, and positive attitude. They developed these traits while riding long distances in the cold, enduring battles, and crossing the sea.
Colors
Icelandic horses come in many colors, including chestnut, pinto, roan, silver dapple, and dun. They can also have variations, such as skewbald, palomino, and grey.
Gait
Icelandic horses can perform a flying pace called the skeið, which can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. This gait is popular in racing, but it's uncomfortable for riders and not often used for regular riding.
Naming
Icelandic horses have their own naming committee, and their names can come from Norse mythology or refer to their temperament.
Purity
To keep the Icelandic breed pure, horses can only leave the country once.

Why do horses roll?
Horses roll on their backs for many reasons, including:
Grooming: Rolling can help horses fluff and dry their wet coats, which helps them stay warm in the winter.
Fun: Rolling can be a fun activity for horses.
Spotting: Horses often roll in the same place, which becomes a soft, comfortable spot for them to relax and scratch.
Pain: Rolling can be a sign of pain, such as from colic or digestive issues.
Irritation: Rolling can help horses get rid of irritation or parasites that they can't reach with their mouths or feet.
Protection: Rolling in mud or dust can protect horses from the sun and insects.
Self-adjustment: Rolling may help horses with chiropractic and self-adjustment benefits.
Mental state: Rolling can indicate a horse's mental state.
Trust: Horses that roll in your presence may be showing a high level of trust and comfort in you.
Contagious: Rolling is contagious, so you may see more than one horse roll in a row.