EDITORIAL SECTION - THE EXMOOR PONY |
 
Exmoor foals need careful, sensitive handling and socialising using trust-based, positive methods of horsemanship. They have enormous spirit, a huge sense of fun and, obviously, a finely-tuned survival and 'flight' instinct. Working with the foals is enormously rewarding, but takes time and patience. |
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| SOCIALISATION & HANDLING OF EXMOOR PONIES |
| Autumn Gatherings 2005 |
This year, we were privileged to attend a few of the autumn gatherings and inspections of the Exmoor Pony herds.
First was Western Herd 12 at Luckwell Bridge. All went quietly and smoothly and mares and foals were soon munching hay in their yard. All foals passed their inspection and their excellent condition was noted. During inspection and branding, it was fascinating to watch the accomplished horsemanship methods and sensitive way the handlers worked with the ponies. Much could be learned.
Branding is a highly skilled job and it was clear that great care is taken to ensure that split second timing is employed to create a satisfactory brand without any more contact than is necessary. With such small numbers and rare bloodlines, it is still necessary to ensure that the ponies are identifiable and no other method is currently practical, particularly for those going back out onto the moor.
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The Western Herd 12
Photographed on their way to Hawkwell Farm
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Who says you can't ride Exmoor ponies?
These two certainly take deep water in their stride - Lisa Clarke riding Tiger Moth and Lucy Beeney riding Knightoncombe Jenny Wren at the Knightoncombe Herd gathering in October.
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Next stop was a visit to the Dunkery Herd inspection and here, each mare and foal were in individual stables. Foals were inspected and branded with their mother standing next to them. We stood close by and watched a newly branded foal approach confidently and lick the hand of his new owner, allowing her to stroke and stand with him. He was not at all worried about human contact.
A couple of days later, the Knightoncombe Herd was brought off the moor, and this time, after inspection and branding, we watched the herd being turned back out. These foals stay with their mothers for at least a week after branding, before weaning. We had the opportunity to observe the herd, with their stallion, a few minutes later and sit with them for a while in the meadows bordering the moor. The entire herd was calm and peaceful, happy for us to sit amongst them and all, including foals, busied themselves with grazing. |
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Left: The Knightoncombe Herd inspection
This mare's foal has just passed inspection and she watches activities with interest.
This year's Knightoncombe event saw three new Inspectors qualify - two of whom are only in their twenties - Charlotte and Philip. |
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Right: The Knightoncombe Herd
Photographed grazing a few minutes after inspections and brandings |
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