Native pony breeds including Exmoor, Dartmoor, and New Forest ponies are semi-wild and require active management to maintain population health and welfare.
Semi-wild ponies represent a welfare challenge distinct from either fully wild or domesticated horses. They require human management to prevent overpopulation, disease, and habitat damage, yet retain strong flight responses that make handling stressful. Annual round-ups cause acute stress but allow health interventions that prevent long-term welfare problems. Welfare during gathering is improved by experienced handlers, calm herding, and appropriate facilities. Population management prevents the chronic welfare costs of starvation in winter.