Well-meaning animal lovers are endangering wild ponies by feeding them carrots
Conwy: There’s a bit of a stir going on about the wild ponies in the Eryri mountains. A farmer is pretty upset because people are leaving piles of carrots for these ponies, thinking they’re helping them out.
Gareth Wyn Jones, a well-known farmer and online influencer, has come out swinging. He says those carrots are like giving the ponies heroin! They just can’t handle that kind of sugar, and it could make them really sick or even worse.
These ponies have adapted to munching on tough mountain grass, and their tummies aren’t built for sugary treats. Sure, folks often give their horses a carrot now and then, but too many can lead to some nasty health issues like colic or laminitis.
Gareth insists that since these ponies are semi-wild, they should stick to what they can find on their own. But for years, people have been dropping off carrots at popular spots like Aber mountain gate and Sychnant Pass. Not only can this cause digestive problems, but it can also lead to choking.
Recently, a bunch of carrots was found near Gwernengan lake, a spot that’s a favorite for pony lovers. It’s easy to get to, and people love to see the ponies up close.
In a video, Gareth pleaded with everyone to stop feeding them. As a spokesperson for the Carneddau Pony Society, he’s really worried about the impact this could have on these unique ponies that roam the mountains.
He said, “They don’t need carrots. It’s like feeding them heroin. They could choke, and their stomachs just can’t handle it.”
Gareth went on to say that while people think they’re being kind, they’re actually doing more harm than good. If you’ve got extra veggies, he suggests giving them to a food bank instead.
Opinions are mixed among horse owners about feeding carrots. Some are okay with it, but most agree that the Carneddau ponies should be left alone.
One woman pointed out that these ponies have evolved to survive in tough conditions. In winter, there’s no sugar in the grass, so giving them carrots can really mess with their systems.
Another person mentioned that the sugar in carrots can be addictive for the ponies, making them hang around busy roads and putting them in danger.
These ponies have been living in the Welsh mountains for ages and are a unique breed. Sadly, their numbers have dwindled, with only about 220 breeding mares left.
Gareth made a strong point: “No one should be feeding other people’s animals.” This resonates with many horse owners who often deal with the fallout from people feeding their animals the wrong things.
One owner shared that people toss all sorts of food over their fences, from vegetable scraps to whole apples. It’s a real hassle!
Another owner added that people just don’t realize the damage they can do. It’s like if someone walked into their home and fed their pets whatever they wanted!
