Why are colt foals of other native rare breeds, such the Fell or Highland, £500 – £1000 compared with £50 – £100 for an Exmoor colt, despite their rarity?
Possibly several factors are involved. The Fell and Highland are bigger than the Exmoor and are therefore considered, by many people, to be ideal as adult, or family, riding ponies. They are also are popular as ride and drive ponies. Despite its small size (12.2 – 12.3+ hands) the Exmoor is a strong pony, which can carry most adults and also makes a good driving pony. Foals straight from the moor also have a reputation for being difficult to handle initially. Hopefully in the future MMT, through promotion, will help increase the popularity of the Exmoor pony, which will lead to increased demand and higher prices for the sale of the young colt foals.
