Intro
The Coffin Bay Pony is a semi-feral breed that is native to Coffin Bay, on the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula in Australia. Often confused with the Brumby’s, these ponies do not share their lineage and are protected by fences from breeding with them.
Origins
The bloodlines of these ponies come from 60 Timor ponies imported by English settlers in the mid-19th century for breeding. From the start breeding was selective, controlled for quality and purity. However as the operations expanded additional bloodlines were added including Welsh Cob, Thoroughbred, Arabian, Clydesdale and Hackney.
During the 20th century breeding horses became less commercially viable and the animals that were once meticulously bred became more of a liability. In 1972 the breeding farm was given to the South Australian Government to become a national park.
Since that time, preservation of the ponies is managed by volunteers of the Coffin Bay pony Society. This group ensures that their numbers stay reasonable so they are allowed to remain in the park.
Two Types
There are two acceptable types of Coffin Bay Pony, a lighter saddle-type and a stronger, more robust type.
Features
Average height no taller than 14.2
Physique
Highly reminiscent of the Timor ponies
Traditional Colors
Chestnut | Grey | Bay | Black | Roan | Dun
No pinto white patterns
Temperament
Friendly & manageable when domesticated
Use
When domesticated make great riding ponies