Shetland Pony - Five Sisters Zoo

Remains of small ponies have been found on the Shetland Islands dating back over 2000 years. These small and stocky ponies have evolved to deal with the extreme weather found on the islands, with a thick double coat and guard hairs to keep off precipitation. Coat colours are highly variable, from golden coloured through to black, and a variety of patterns.  The breed is known for its physical strength acting as both a riding pony and a farm pony, able to assist in ploughing fields.

Facts

Diet: Herbivore; grasses, moss and seaweed.

Weight: 136-226kg

Height: about 1m at the shoulder (also known as the withers)

Habitat: Shetland, Scotland; grassy areas and some coastal areas

Life Span:  25-30 years

Adapted to Survive

  • Thick coat to protect against extreme weather

Threats

  • Hybridization
  • Habitat loss due to climate change

IUCN Conservation Status

Not Evaluated (Domestic Species)

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