New Forest Pony

The New Forest pony has lived in a semi-wild state in the New Forest of Hampshire since the 10th century and has had a varied, but well documented history.

Descended from ancient stock, they have been subjected to various influences, the first recorded one being that of 18 Welsh mares, introduced to the herd in 1208. One of the most interesting influences, however, was provided by the famous small Thoroughbred horse, Marsk.

Marsk was the sire of the indomitable Eclipse, one of the greatest racehorses of all time, and was introduced to the New Forest herd in 1765. His influence was quite considerable and the New Forest pony still retains a largely horse-type head, and an extremely long, low stride aided by good conformation of the shoulders. In spite of Marsk's influence, by the 19th century the quality of the ponies diminished considerably. In 1852, the Arabian stallion Zorah was used to improve them and then in 1889, another Arabian stallion, Abeyan, and a barb stallion Yirrassan, were lent to the New Forest by Queen Victoria.

In 1891, the Society for the Improvement of the New Forest Ponies was founded, which set up a stallion premium plan for stallions which were suitable to run in the herd. The subsequent introduction of various native ponies, including the Fell, Dales, Highlands, Welsh, Dartmoor, and Exmoor which had an improving effect on the New Forest ponies. Due to these influences, there is a range of characteristics within the New Forest breed and the height can range from 12 hh to 14.2 hh. The New Forest pony is an excellent children's pony, and excels at dressage, jumping, mounted games, and cross country, as well as in harness. The New Forest is now widely bred throughout the UK, although a herd does still remain in the New Forest. They are tough and hardy, have good stamina and endurance, and have very good temperaments.

In appearance, they usually have an attractive head which lacks pony characteristics. They have well proportioned conformation, a muscular neck and quarters, short compact back, and often excellent conformation of the shoulder. Their legs are typically quite fine boned, but are strong and tough, with good feet. They are mostly bay or brown in color, but can be any color.

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