Stalking Pony Demonstration

The use of Highland Ponies for the carrying stags off the hill has been used since Victorian times, when the guests would ride out to the stalking ground and then return on foot with their stag on pony. Highland Ponies are the most versatile of all the British Native Breeds of horse and pony. They are excellent weight carriers and their kind temperamenrt makes them ideal for training for many uses. Their heights range from 13.2 hh - 14.2 hh. this makes them a good height for loading with rough terrain, especially with a load. Their natural instinct teaches them how to navigate their way across the many peat bogs and rocky ground.

There are two main designs of stalking saddle. The first being similar to the conventional riding saddle with added straps for holding the stag on with. The second is the "Strathfarrer", which i use. It has three girths, a breastplate, breeching and a surcingle, all to help with securing the stag in position. The pony also wears blinkers as an insurance that it doesn't get frightened. 

A deer, chosen for the cull is either old, infirm, or a switch. (A switch has very long top tines on its antlers and they could damage a good quality stag if they were to go into battle).

My demonstrations includes a simulated stalk of a stag and how it is then strapped onto the pony for its journey off the mountain and back to the deer lader, where it is cleaned and dressed ready for collection the next morning by the gamedealer. I also explain about what clothing is desirable and why, and some of the other specialist equipment used.

I will be available ready to answer any questions that people may have.