In honor of May being Adopt a Horse Month, we invite you to put your knowledge to the test.

Did you know that there’s a difference between “ponies” and “horses”? They are the same species but they are not the same category. There's one little detail that determines if an equine fits into the "pony" category, and it can open the barn doors to special pony-only shows, registries and competition opportunities.

Can you correctly identify which of these four adoptable equines is a pony? Here are a few hints to help in your deduction!

Charm, available for adoption from Longmeadow Rescue Ranch

This delightful, 13.2hh equine has off-the-charts smarts! Charm just turned three and has a reputation around the farm for being exceptionally clever and learning new skills with ease. Could Charm be the #RightHorse for you?

Electra, available for adoption from Days End Farm Horse Rescue

Is Electra sending sparks through your keyboard? This special #RightHorse is 22 years old and stands at 15.2hh. She’s looking for someone who wants to learn the ropes of horsemanship by spoiling her in her golden years.

Fiesta, available for adoption from Heart of Phoenix Equine Rescue

Meet the baby of the group—Fiesta! Fiesta is just about to turn a year old and is looking for an adopter to join her party. This spirited youngster currently stands at 12hh, but will undoubtedly keep growing over the next few years.

Lexie, available for adoption from the Kentucky Equine Adoption Center

Lexie is a sweet 15hh, 15-year-old mare who's learning how to interact with people on the ground. She's looking for someone with a big green pasture and the ability to continue her training – could that be you?

And the pony is…

Did you guess Charm? If so, you’re correct—congratu-neigh-tions!

A pony is defined as an equine who is under 14.2hh at maturity. Hands, denoted as hh, are the standard unit of measurement for equines in the United States and each hand is equivalent to four inches. The designation of “horse” or “pony” is usually given when the equine is full-grown, so even though a young horse might technically be under 14.2hh, if they’re expected to mature beyond that height, they’re not typically called a pony. A common misperception is the idea that “pony” simply refers to a young horse.

Of course, there are always a few exceptions to the rule. Miniature Horses, for example, are well below horse height, but are stilled called horses. And some full-sized horses fall just below 14.2hh but if their breed is typically of horse height, they are still called a horse among equestrians.

Are you intrigued and ready to learn more? Visit our Adopt a Horse Month hub to learn more about horses, meet the horses looking for homes and join the celebration!

Feeling inspired and ready to adopt a horse of your own? Visit myrighthorse.org to browse hundreds of adoptable horses nationwide by breed, gender or discipline.