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Shetland pony

Shetland pony

The Shetland pony is a small and sturdy horse known for its friendly nature. They are great for kids and love to play and explore their surroundings.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Shetland pony is a compact, sturdy equine with short legs, a broad back, and a deep chest. They have a distinctive shaggy double coat, often black, dark brown, or grey, with a thick mane and tail. Their small size and gentle eyes make them easily recognizable.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderPerissodactylaFamilyEquidaeGenusEquus
Shetland pony
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Shetland pony

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Shetland ponies can live into their thirties, much longer than many other horse breeds!

Their sturdy hooves are incredibly tough, allowing them to walk on rocky terrain without shoes.

These hardy ponies developed on islands where winters are very cold and windy!

They originally worked in coal mines, pulling carts underground!

Special abilities

Ability

Arctic Coat

Shetland pony has a super-thick double coat that helps them stay warm and dry in harsh, cold, and wet climates.

Ability

Super Strength

Shetland pony can carry heavy loads far exceeding their own body weight, making them excellent working animals.

Ability

Tough Digestion

Shetland pony can digest coarse vegetation and thrive on sparse pastures because of their efficient digestive system.

Measurements & details

Length
100-130 cm
Weight
150-200 kg
Lifespan
20-30 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Litter Size
1
Gestation
320-350 days

Diet & Feeding

Shetland ponies are grazing animals that mostly eat grasses, hay, and other plant matter.

Primary Foods

  • grasses
  • hay
  • heather
  • sedges

Foraging Method

  • Grazing

Ecological connections

eats

Heather

Calluna vulgaris

A primary food source in their native moorland habitats.

eats

Red fescue

Festuca rubra

A common grass species grazed in pastures and wild areas.

parasitizes

Sheep tick

Ixodes ricinus

Ticks attach to ponies to feed on their blood.

parasitizes

Bloodworm

Strongylus vulgaris

An internal parasite that can affect pony health.

Traits

Also known as

Shetland horse

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Always be gentle and calm around ponies, and ask an adult for help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Shetland pony?

100-130 cm

How much does Shetland pony weigh?

150-200 kg

How long does Shetland pony live?

20-30 years

How fast can Shetland pony move?

35 km/h

What does Shetland pony eat?

Shetland ponies are grazing animals that mostly eat grasses, hay, and other plant matter.

Where is Shetland pony usually found?

Grasslands

How does Shetland pony hunt?

Grazing

How many babies does Shetland pony usually have?

1

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