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Nestled among the rugged peaks of Snowdonia in North Wales roams a unique and hardy breed-the Carneddau pony. These ponies, often considered a living relic of Britain's equine heritage, are integral to the cultural and ecological fabric of the region. The Carneddau pony is thought to be descended from ancient Celtic horses that once roamed freely across the British Isles. DNA studies suggest a lineage dating back thousands of years, highlighting their role as a genetic treasure. Unlike more domesticated breeds, the Carneddau ponies have remained largely untouched by selective breeding, preserving traits that enable them to thrive in their challenging habitat.
These ponies are renowned for their resilience. Living on the windswept slopes of the Carneddau mountain range, they endure harsh winters, steep terrain, and scarce resources. Their sturdy build, thick winter coats, and sure-footedness are adaptations honed over generations. While small in stature, typically standing around 11-12 hands high, the Carneddau pony is characterized by its striking features-large, expressive eyes, a dense mane, and a robust frame. These qualities make them both visually captivating and ideally suited to their environment. The Carneddau ponies play a vital ecological role in maintaining the biodiversity of their habitat. By grazing selectively, they prevent overgrowth of certain plant species, allowing a variety of flora and fauna to thrive. Their presence is also essential for sustaining the delicate balance of upland ecosystems. Challenges to Survival Despite their adaptability, Carneddau ponies face increasing threats. Harsh winters, habitat loss, and changing land use policies have taken a toll on their population, which numbers only a few hundred. Conservationists and local communities work tirelessly to protect these ponies, emphasising the need for careful management and awareness to ensure their survival.
For the people of Wales, the Carneddau ponies are more than just animals-they are a symbol of endurance and connection to the land. Efforts to preserve them not only protect an ancient breed but also honour the cultural heritage of Snowdonia. By safeguarding the Carneddau ponies, we ensure that future generations can marvel at these magnificent creatures, whose presence is a poignant reminder of the wild beauty that still graces the Welsh mountains.
In the UK we are lucky enough to have beautiful native horses and ponies roaming our land. Some of the Native breeds originate from particular regions across the UK & Ireland and roam in semi-wild herds that are accustomed to their particular environments. They graze in harsh, vast landscapes where hill farmers with commoner’s rights are custodians of these breeds. They care for them, protect them, ensuring their safety, health and continuing the long line of ancient gene pools continue for these native breeds to thrive and be healthy. Other native breeds are traditional workhorses with a long history of working alongside men from agriculture to industry over the years.
Their environments are changing, from intensive agriculture, expansive building, fencing off vast areas of moorland which restricts grazing, lack of interest in native breeds from horse enthusiasts, hill farmers whose families have farmed their land for many generations are unable to pass down their farms to new generations due to financial pressures and changes to farming legislation. All these elements are diminishing the likelihood of a future in the wild for our rare native breeds.
I’m passionate about our rare native breeds and the natural habitats they live in. I have loved every minute of creating this wonderful book project. I hope that Wild Hearts will raise the profile of our native breeds who have grazed and shaped our land for hundreds of years – some of which are facing possible extinction.
At a time when our world is fragile and in need of great change and care from us all. I believe it’s so important to cherish all our environments, nature and animals. With a passionate message of conservation at its heart, once complete, I hope that my fine art horse photography art book aim will show people the heart and soul of these wonderful breeds and to encourage people to support these vulnerable breeds, either by protecting them in their natural environment or by buying a registered pony; a step which could help save these rare breeds.
| Print Size (ISO) | 45cm x 32cm, 17.7in x 12.6in (Fits A3 frame), 64cm x 47cm, 25.2in x 18.5in (Fits A2 frame), 89cm x 65cm, 35in x 25.6in (Fits A1 frame) |
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| Frame Option | Sanctuary frame, Unframed (print only) |
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