Shetland pony

Habitat
Domesticated worldwide. Originates from the Shetland Islands northeast of Scotland.

Age
Can live over 30 years.

Weight
Approximately 150 kg.

Height
Up to 110 cm.

Gestation period
11-12 months.

Number of offspring
1 foal (very rarely 2).

Status
Not endangered.

Did you know that…

• There are still around 1500 Shetland ponies roaming the islands northeast of Scotland, along roadsides, on beaches, and in the mountains.
• Despite their wild appearance, they are all owned and cared for by the locals.
• The first Shetland ponies can be traced back to 500 BCE.
• The harsh living conditions have, through generations, created a pony that is both robust, long-lived, and strong.
• After the use of children in coal mines was prohibited in the mid-19th century, a large number of Shetland ponies were transported to the mainland to perform heavy work.
• With their small size, great strength, and stable temperament, they were perfect for working in the mines.
• On the Scottish islands, they were used as riding, pack, and draft animals for peat and plowing.
• The most common color of Shetland ponies is black, but they can be seen in many colors.
• Ponies are herd animals.
• The herd in Knuthenborg consists of the breeding stallion, many mares, and their foals.

Meet the ponies at Bandholmmarken.