The Pony Mammals 
by the warmth of the Gulf Stream. The islands 
consist of high points of rocks, and basins lying be- 
tween, which have peat bottoms. Over this peat 
grows heather and scanty grass on which the herds 
of ponies feed. There are no trees and shrubs for 
shelter, and the ponies are never housed. They 
are born, and live their lives in an open field the 
year round. Their only protection from the wind 
and storm are piles of rocks, and stone walls. Be- 
cause of the warm, moist atmosphere brought by 
the Gulf Stream into this semi-Arctic region, much 
rain and mist is condensed; thus the Shetland ponies 
have developed their long, fine hair, to protect them 
from moisture. 
The ponies were ranging these Shetland islands 
before the year 872, and are supposed to have been 
brought from Norway in ancient times. However, 
ponies were found in England and Wales by Julius 
Caesar when he conquered the British Isles. The 
mustangs and bronchos of our Southwest are sup- 
posed to have descended from horses introduced. 
by the Spaniards, and therefore have Spanish or 
Moorish ancestors. 
HOUSE 
The stable should be well ventilated, without 
drafts, and clean bedding of straw should be given 
every day. There should be a yard adjoining the 
stable where the pony may be let out to take exercise 
daily. 
FOOD 
In general, the pony should receive one-fourth or: 
less of the rations given to a horse. Good, well- 
cured hay, and clover, are best for it. A pint of bran, 
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