Bidding at Auction is exciting and fun and represents an amazing opportunity to become part of Dartmoor’s History whilst also protecting a rare pony from one of the only semi wild herds remaining in England. However, for some it may seem like a daunting process so read on for all the details you need to know.

Being well-prepared and informed will help ensure a smooth pony-buying experience at auction. But we are here to help. If you are excited at the idea of being able to purchase a Dartmoor Hill Pony but unsure or nervous of the process at auction we can allocate a member of our team to assist you - simply get in touch.

Discover the unique magic of the Dartmoor Hill Ponies:

• Found Nowhere Else: These incredible ponies roam only on the rugged, beautiful landscapes of Dartmoor.
• Semi-Wild Majesty: Though owned and distantly managed for welfare, these ponies live freely in natural herds, led by a stallion. As the last semi-wild equine herds in England, they embody the untamed spirit of Dartmoor.
• Ancient Heritage: With over 4,000 years of history on Dartmoor, these ponies may even carry Ice Age equine genetics. A living link to England’s ancient past!
• Newly Recognised: After being listed by the British Breed Revival Trust in 2021, the Dartmoor Hill Ponies were officially placed on the Rare Breed Survival Trust Watchlist in 2023.
• Critically Endangered: With fewer than 1,000 breeding mares left, these ponies face an uncertain future. Their numbers are so low that the population risks becoming genetically unviable.
• Rare and Resilient: These ponies possess rare genetic traits that help them survive harsh environments, making them invaluable to scientific research and one of only two types of equines globally with these qualities.
• Champions of Biodiversity: Their grazing habits enhance biodiversity, supporting rare species like the Marsh Fritillary Butterfly and curbing invasive plants. These ponies graze even at high altitudes, year-round, thanks to their unique genes.
• Beloved Icons: Visitors and locals alike cherish the Dartmoor Hill Ponies, who have become an inseparable part of the moorland’s culture and landscape.
• Cultural Stewards: Dartmoor’s Commoners continue to uphold age-old traditions, caring for these herds and preserving a way of life that’s deeply intertwined with the ponies.
• Natural Grazing Experts: Each herd's stallion plays a vital role in maintaining balance, directing the herd to the best grazing spots and managing herd dynamics.
• Protected Yet Threatened: Classified as endangered by Defra and the United Nations, these ponies face an uncertain future due to government agricultural policies that may threaten their survival.

Help keep these magnificent ponies roaming Dartmoor! Support the efforts of the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association and Friends of the Dartmoor Hill Pony by joining the movement to save this rare breed. Become a Dartmoor Warrior today by joining our wonderful Facebook page Dartmoor Warriors!