The New Forest pony has been present in the area since at least the Ice Age, and still lives a semi-feral life on the unenclosed landscape. Known as the 'architect of the Forest', this native breed has, since ancient times, shaped (and been shaped by) the ecology, economy, and cultural heritage of the New Forest.

In its history, the New Forest pony has avoided the large scale culls decreed by Henry VIII; resisted attempts to 'improve' its qualities via the introduction of Arabian stallions loaned by Queen Victoria; seen its popularity rise and fall and rise again in the sales ring; and is now a beloved attraction for the millions of visitors who travel to the National Park each year. However, the prospects of the New Forest pony are by no means secure and the breed is currently registered on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust's 'Watch List'.

This informative and entertaining talk explores the development of the New Forest pony from a prey species in the Pleistocene era to the status of 'tribal god' in modern times, and asks, what does the future have in store for this ancient pony breed?

Format: Illustrated talk with slides. Length: approximately 45 mins + Q&A