Exmoor ponies reunite for one of nature’s rare spectacles

A rare spectacle unfolded on Exmoor yesterday (October 16) as the Anchor Herd of Exmoor ponies was brought together for its annual gathering at Winsford Hill.

Although many believe Exmoor ponies are wild, every pony on the moor is owned.

The Anchor Herd, looked after by David and Emma Wallace, runs freely across the hills until gathered once a year. Using a combination of horseback riders and quad bikes, family and friends round up the herd before leading the animals to the family farm for inspection.

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The gathering has a crucial purpose. Foals born in the spring are separated from their mares and checked individually by the Exmoor Pony Society. Each foal is microchipped for identification, while the mares undergo a health assessment. A detailed headcount ensures no colt foal is left out, as missing even one could affect future breeding plans.

Foals that meet breed standards may join the free-living herd, be sold as riding ponies, or used in conservation grazing. Those registered in the Exmoor pony studbook help preserve the breed’s bloodlines.

The Anchor Herd has been in the Wallace family since 1947, though the herd was originally established in the 19th Century. Ponies were first registered with the Exmoor Pony Society in 1921.

David Wallace, a trustee and Chair of the society, explained the importance of careful management.

“The second world war had a huge impact on Exmoor ponies, and only 50 survived. This had an almost catastrophic effect on their bloodlines, with many being lost forever,” he said. “This put the pony at risk, and even today it’s a breed that is classed as ‘Priority’ by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, which essentially means endangered. This is where dedicated management of breeding and the stud book becomes so important.”

Today, more than 500 registered ponies roam in 21 free-living herds across Exmoor National Park, which also owns its own herd. A further 3,500 registered ponies live across the UK and abroad in both domesticated and free-living environments.

David added: “Owners and breeders need to manage how many foals are born, because there is a limited market for ponies – especially colts. It’s a delicate balance, and we typically register fewer than 200 foals every year. When bloodstock and genetics are managed correctly we will be able to preserve the genetic pool of the Exmoor pony and increase its diversity.”

The Anchor Herd gathering is one of several taking place across Exmoor during October, offering a rare glimpse into the conservation and care of Britain’s oldest native pony breed.