Adam Henson, the 60-year-old presenter of BBC One's Countryfile, has shared his concerns about protecting a rare breed of ponies after welcoming two new foals to his farm in Gloucestershire. The new arrivals, named Roxy and Rosie, are Exmoor ponies, a breed with only a few thousand worldwide.
During the latest episode of Countryfile aired on February 1, Henson explained the measures taken to ensure the safety and welfare of the ponies, including microchipping and DNA sampling. He said: 'Not only is it important for the rule of the land to have these ponies microchipped and their passports put together, but also for the Exmoor Pony Society and particularly for the breed itself, before the Exmoor Pony is still very rare.'
Henson noted that there are only about 200 Exmoor pony foals born each year in the UK, making each one 'precious'. He added: 'So we're really just doing our bit for rare breeds conservation and keeping this gorgeous breed going.' The tracking is important to prove the breed's identity and safeguard diversity when planning further breeding.
Henson manages Bemborough Farm, which also operates as the Cotswolds Farm Park, attracting thousands of visitors annually. He has been offering wisdom and animal expertise from the farm since 2001, inspired by his father Joe, who encouraged his farming and television career.
