Miniature Pony
Equus caballus
Distribution:
United States
Habitat:
Plains, grasslands, farmlands.
Diet:
Grass and hay
Gestation:
320 - 330 days, one foal born
Longevity:
25 - 35 years in both the wild and captivity
Predators:
Black bear, cougars, coyotes and bobcats.
Conservation Status:
Not Evaluated
General:
A miniature pony is a breed or type of horse characterised by its small size. Usually it has been bred to display in miniature the physical characteristics of a full-sized horse/pony.
Communicating through neighs, nickers, snorts and squeals, miniature ponies use sounds to communicate to both their owners/keepers and other animals.
Miniature ponies are known for their social nature and generally do better in a pair. In domestication, they will form close bonds with their owner.
Fun fact: Some miniature ponies/horses are trained as service animals for visually impaired people.
At Hamilton Zoo:
We have a pair of miniature ponies at Hamilton Zoo, they share their home with our miniature donkeys. You can see them on the way to the tigers from the oasis lawn.
Male:
Freddie - Unknown
Female:
Mary - Unknown