Shetland pony
Equus caballus caballus shetland
This miniature horse is an ancient breed seen for over 2,000 years. The Shetland pony originates from the island of Shetland, which is found off the coast of Scotland.
The Shetland Islands have a very harsh, unforgiving climate, which is why the Shetland pony has developed a thick coat, and despite their tiny stature they are an incredibly strong animal. This pony can be between three and four feet tall.
Belfast Zoo’s farmyard is home to four Shetland ponies.
IUCN red list status
The IUCN status of the Shetland pony is not evaluated.
For more information on classifications visit www.iucnredlist.org.
Animal class
Mammal
Conservation status
The RBST has not yet given the Shetland pony endangered status. Because they are often crossed with Hackney Ponies, the classic Shetland Pony breed is becoming rarer.
Habitat
Farmland
Population
In 1822 it was estimated there were 10,000 ponies on the Shetland Islands but, by the 1890s, this figure was down to only 4000. Today on the islands, there are approximately 1,000 ponies.
Diet
Herbivore. It grazes on grass in the wild. When the ground is covered in snow, it will paw at it to get at the grass and moss. It may also climb down to the beach to feed on seaweed.