| § Fell Ponies § | ||||||
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While black is now the predominant color in the breed, brown, bay, and gray are also allowed and were more common in the past. Gray Fells are born dark and gradually turn white with age.
Fell ponies are known for their good temperaments and intelligence. The breed standard states: "The Fell pony should be constitutionally hard as iron, and show good pony characteristics with the unmistakable appearance of hardiness peculiar to mountain ponies and, at the same time, have a lively and alert appearance and great bone."
Like many equine breeds, Fells mature late, both physically and mentally. While classes in shows allow ponies under saddle at age four, some breeders and trainers prefer to wait until age five or later before riding their ponies. This later start can contribute to a longer working life and an easier training experience. Full maturity may not occur until age eight. For ponies foaled outside their native environment in close contact with humans, it is recommended that foals be accustomed to being handled at an early age.
Like all of the British native pony breeds, Fells were bred for work. Historically Fells have been valued as pack ponies because of their hard feet and their fast and steady walk. They have also been used for shepherding, as deer stalking ponies to pack out a dead stag, and for light draft work on hill farms.
In modern days the role of the Fell Pony is often for competitive and pleasure riding, driving and showing. They compete well against other breeds in riding and driving events in Europe as well as North America, including endurance trials and combined driving. They are also enjoyed by their owners for trekking, hunting, and jumping, and have accompanied brides and grooms during wedding ceremonies.
The Fell Pony Society summarizes the breed's work
ethic with, "You cannot put a Fell to the wrong job!"
Thank you to Bert and Carole Morland of the Lunesdale
Fell Pony Stud .
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This page last updated: 27 February 2007
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