Grasses and Forbs:
* Grasses: They graze on a variety of grasses, including fescue, ryegrass, and bentgrass.
* Forbs: These are non-grassy plants like clovers, dandelions, and wildflowers.
Other Vegetation:
* Heath: Depending on their location, they might eat heather, a common shrub in moorland areas.
* Mosses and Lichens: These are a less significant but available food source in winter or harsh conditions.
* Bark and Twigs: If food is scarce, they might nibble on bark and twigs, though this is not their preferred diet.
Important Notes:
* Seasonal Variations: Their diet changes with the seasons. In summer, they have access to a wide variety of lush vegetation. In winter, they rely more on grazing tough grasses and seeking out other sources like heather and bark.
* Limited Food Sources: Wild Shetland ponies often live in harsh environments with limited food resources. They are incredibly resourceful and can survive on what's available, even in challenging conditions.
* Social Behavior: They are herd animals and graze together, sometimes in areas with a shared water source. This social structure helps them find food and keep safe from predators.
While they're capable of surviving on a wild diet, domestic Shetland ponies typically receive a more balanced and controlled diet of hay, grain, and supplements tailored to their individual needs.