The Dartmoor pony has lived in southern England for centuries and is used for a variety of disciplines. The Dartmoor pony is as much associated with Dartmoor as Dartmoor Tors. Because of the extreme weather conditions experienced on Dartmoor, the Dartmoor Pony is a particularly hardy breed with excellent stamina. Over the centuries the Dartmoor Ponies have been used as a working animal by local tin miners and quarry workers. It lives in a feral or "wild" state in Dartmoor National Park, Devon. Ponies have lived on Dartmoor for a very long time. An archaeological dig uncovered hoof prints as early as the Bronze Age. The Dartmoor Pony is now a rare breed but can still be seen wandering across the moor and meandering along the lanes.

The ponies have an exceptional temperament and breeders have long realized their potential as children's ponies with the ability to make wonderful companions, give endless fun, and if required compete and succeed in all spheres of competition.

There was a fear that the pony might disappear from the moor altogether. However, Dartmoor National Park Authority has worked hard with all interested parties to try to ensure that there is a sustainable future for all ponies on Dartmoor. The Authority has been successful in setting up not only support for all breeds on the commons, but worked in partnership in ensuring that the future of the native breed - the Dartmoor Pony has a sustainable future in its native habitat.

Dartmoor Ponies live out on the moor all year round. Most foals are born between May and August. Local farmers who keep ponies get together to clear them off their particular common; these round-ups are called 'drifts'.People on horseback, quad bikes, and running on foot, herd the ponies towards a small field or yard. The ponies are then separated into groups according to ownership. The health of all the animals is checked, and treatment is given where appropriate. The sick, old and infirm, or those to be sold, are separated from those which will be returned to the moor.

Dartmoor Pony Drift Video