Locking The Barn Door After The Horse's Tail Is Gone

It is odd how any time an animal is mutilated, some moron announces that it must be the Pagans.

IT IS the bizarre act that has left horse lovers and police across Hampshire mystified.

What appears to be a ritualistic chopping of horses tails has sparked both concern and confusion among the county’s equine community.

Police have put horse owners on alert and appealed for any information that can explain why the tails of two animals were cut off while they grazed in a field. . . . One theory being looked into by officers is that it is part of a strange ritual by pagans in the lead up to the Winter Solstice later this month.

Yes, because isn't that how we all prepare for Solstice? Meditate, look forward to the return of the light, prepare mulled wine and baked goods, cut off horses tails?

At least the report includes a Pagan point of view:

Meanwhile, Catherine Hosen, spokeswoman for the Pagan Federation of Wessex, said: “It’s certainly not any ritual that I’m aware of. Any day in the year you could say it’s close to some pagan ritual because the calendar is pretty full of them.

“Pagans have a strong respect for anything to do with nature. They would ask permission before removing a branch from a tree, let alone do anything to a horse.”

Since the only other theory is apparently rocking-horse restorers -- a group almost as outlandish and dangerous as modern Pagans -- I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for an arrest. Meanwhile, I will light some incense to Epona and ask her to protect the horses.

More here, although you do get some annoying audio when you click on the link.

Picture found here.