Ponies Relocating to Peninnis for the Autumn
Monday 14th September 2015
Ponies grazing at Higher Moors
The Trust's seven ponies are being relocated to Peninnis Head to graze for the Autumn. They will initially be in a fenced off area between Carn Mahael and Dutchman's Carn and will be moved to other locations on the Headland over the coming weeks.
Pridham, Widdy, Flash, Titch, Beauty, Mayflower and Princess will be having a change of scenery over the Autumn period and taking in the views from Peninnis Head.
On Tuesday 15th September 2015 the ponies (four Dartmoor and three Shetland's) will be moving from the north end of St Mary's to the south western facing slopes of Peninnis, between Carn Mahael and Dutchman's Carn initially; overlooking Spanish Ledges, St Agnes & Gugh.
The map below shows the boundary of the area that the ponies will initially be in (in purple), with "gates" highlighted in red where the electric fence crosses footpaths. For those that are wary of livestock it is still possible to walk out around the Headland without going inside of the fence.
The use of electric fences to restrict the movement of the ponies and cattle to specific areas was agreed upon following public consultation when livestock were reintroduced to our headlands. Following these discussions it was evident that some residents were concerned about the possibility of "free-range" livestock on the tenanted land; being "fenced-in" by the existing hedge boundaries and cattle grids was deemed not adequate so electric fences are now installed.
This tenanted land at Peninnis hasn't been grazed by IOS WildLife Trust ponies, or cattle, for some time, since 2013.
Grazing maintains the richness and diversity of wildlife sites and controls invasive species. Animal dung and patches of bare earth, from hoof prints, are good for insects, which in turn feed our birds, shrews and bats. Grazing helps prevent scrub invasion, which damages or hides wildlife and archaeological features, grazing also increases access for walkers around our coastal areas.
The IOS WildLife Trust would like to take this opportunity to thank Jon May for allowing us access through his farm, for both the initial move and subsequent welfare checks and water changes which will take place.
Daily welfare checks will be undertaken by the Ranger Team but if you have any queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us at the IOS WildLife Trust Office on 01720 422153 or contact our Head Ranger, Darren Mason, on 07824 564 907.