What we do

The Moorland Mousie Trust’s primary aims are to promote and conserve the rare breed Exmoor pony. 

Ten years ago, when the charity was founded, the simple aim was to ensure that no more foals would leave their mothers on the moor and go into the meat market.  Since those early days, the work of the Trust has moved on to encompass all aspects of the Exmoor ponies’ welfare.

• Each Autumn we take in the surplus ponies off the moor that no-one wants to buy from the farmers.  In the past, these unwanted ponies went into the meat trade being either exported, or used as animal feed.   Now, through the work of The Moorland Mousie Trust, these foals can have a secure future once they have been domesticated by our experienced and very devoted staff and volunteers. We offer everyone a chance to meet Exmoor ponies at close quarters at The Exmoor Pony Centre, which is our headquarters on Exmoor.
  
• We advise owners on handling techniques.
  
• We work with other equine charities where expertise with Exmoor ponies may be needed.
  
• We support education, hosting veterinary, equine and agricultural student groups.  We work with school groups on curriculum based activities and with special interest groups to further inform participants on the history and importance of the Exmoor pony breed.
  
• We help to place older ponies into suitable homes.
  
• We act as advisors on environmental grazing schemes.
  
• We educate the general public about the unique qualities and heritage of the Exmoor Pony.
  
• We attend events up and down the country – whenever possible, we take a pony too!
  
• We entertain groups of all ages and abilities.
  
• We offer people the chance to enjoy the ponies through our charity and our fundraising: we have very popular adoption and sponsorship schemes.
   
• Most of all, we encourage everyone to come and enjoy our ponies, and understand a little more about a very special part of our British Heritage.