What is the mating ritual for Shetland ponies?

Shetland ponies are induced ovulators, meaning they only ovulate when mating or being touched by a male's genitals. The mating process begins when the jack (male pony) sniffs and licks the mare (female pony) as a way to test for receptivity. Once the mare is in estrus (heat), the jack makes loud, rumbling noises and mounts her. He bites and holds the mare as he penetrates.

During mating, the jack may mount and dismount several times until the mare is fully penetrated. The process can last for several minutes, after which the jack will dismount and the mare will rest. The mare will often urinate after mating.

If the mating is successful, the mare will become pregnant and give birth to a foal after 11 months of gestation.