For thousands of years, hill ponies have grazed and graced the Welsh countryside and have been important in shaping its landscape. In some areas of Wales, these ponies still live with so little human interaction that they are considered half wild. They are known for their toughness and ability to adapt to the often difficult conditions of the Welsh hills and mountains. They cope with harsh weather, limited grazing, and rough, uneven ground, and are skilled at moving across steep slopes. Hill ponies roam freely, playing an important role in maintaining habitats. They also help control plant growth on the hills by eating a variety of different plants. This encourages a range of different grasses to grow. Rolling on the ground to scratch their backs, they also help crush problem plants such as bracken, and their hoofprints create sites for seedlings to grow. In the past, wild ponies were domesticated for riding and used as pit ponies that transported coal and metal ore from the mines.
Despite being a rich part of Welsh culture, hill ponies have faced many natural and manmade threats over the years. In the 1500s, Henry VIII ordered that all horses under a certain height should be killed as they were not necessary if they were not strong enough to carry a soldier. Several organisations in Wales now work to protect and manage their populations. These groups focus on ensuring the welfare of the ponies, conserving their habitats, and promoting their cultural significance.