Lundy pony facts for kids
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| Country of origin | England |
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| Horse (Equus ferus caballus) | |
The Lundy Pony is a special type of pony that first lived on Lundy Island in England. These ponies are known for being very tough and friendly. They were created by crossing different pony breeds to make a unique and hardy animal perfect for the island's wild environment.
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Discover the Lundy Pony
The Lundy Pony is a unique breed of pony from Lundy Island in England. This breed started in 1928. The island's owner, Martin Coles Harman, wanted to create a new type of pony. He brought 34 New Forest pony mares (female horses) and eight foals to the island. He also brought a Welsh Mountain B strawberry roan stallion (male horse).
How the Breed Began
Martin Coles Harman wanted ponies that were stylish and a bit taller. His daughter, Diana Keast, explained his choice. He could have chosen Dartmoor or Exmoor ponies. These were closer and easier to get. But they would not have been as tall as he wanted. So, he went to more trouble to get the New Forest ponies.
The Welsh stallion sadly died only a year after arriving. It had only one foal, a colt named Pepper. Luckily, this first "Lundy pony" grew into a strong and handsome stud stallion. He was a creamy dun color with a black mane and tail.
Life on Lundy Island
By the 1930s, many ponies roamed the island. About 50 were gathered and sold on the mainland. During World War II, it was hard to ship ponies from the island. The herd grew to nearly 100 ponies. To keep the herd peaceful, some stallions had to be moved in 1944.
In 1980, the pony herd was moved from Lundy Island. They were taken to Cornwall, where they continued to breed. Some ponies also went to New Devon. In 1984, the Lundy Pony Breed Society was formed. This group helps to look after the breed. Later, the Society decided to bring some mares and foals back to Lundy Island.
What Makes Them Special
The Lundy Ponies grew up in a tough environment. Lundy Island has poor vegetation and harsh weather. This made the ponies incredibly strong and hardy. They are usually dun, roan, palomino, bay, or liver chestnut in color. They rarely grow taller than 13.2 hands (about 137 cm).
Lundy Ponies have a wide, deep chest and sloping shoulders. Their legs are strong and sound. Their necks are usually well-set and muscular. Their backs are strong and compact. Lundy Ponies are great for children to ride. They are attractive animals and have a very good nature.
Images for kids
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On Lundy Island
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