shetlandpony(Equus ferus caballus)

Mike and Molly are miniature Shetland ponies and arrived on the farm from Cork in May 2012. Molly is the boss and Mike gives her a wide birth.

Origin- The Shetland pony is a breed of pony originating in the Shetland Isles off Scotland

FamilyEquus

Lifespan- Many ponies are long-lived; it is not unusual for a Shetland pony to live more than 30 years

Diet– Mainly consists of grass in summer months. In winter they are supplemented with hay and meal.

Description– Shetlands can be almost every colour, including skewbald and piebald (called pinto in the United States), but are mainly black, chestnut, bay, grey, palomino, dun, roan, cremello, and silver dapple. Shetland ponies are the strongest breed in relation to their size but are generally gentle, good-tempered, and very intelligent by nature. They make good children’s ponies, and are sometimes noted for having a “brave” character, but can be very opinionated or “cheeky”, and can be impatient, snappy, and sometimes become uncooperative. Due in part to their intelligence and size, they are easily spoiled and can be very headstrong if not well-trained.

Gestation– Average gestation of 11 months, giving birth to one single foal.