The Top Ten in Hebridean Wildlife!

Eriskay Pony

The short-legged Eriskay Pony is a local breed of pony of ancient lineage, the only surviving variety of Hebridean pony, but itself in danger of extinction.

The Isle of Eriskay is situated to the south of South Uist and its native pony is a hardy but dainty breed which looks like a smaller version of the Highland Pony.

Eriskay was only linked to South Uist by causeway in 2001, so with the difficulties of access, other breeds were not introduced, leaving a pure breed. By the 1970's, there were only around 20 Eriskay ponies left, but a group of people got together and established breeding groups, and now there are over 300 Eriskay ponies.

Comann Each na Eilean - the Eriskay Pony Society is based on the Isle of Eriskay. The society can help you to visit Eriskay ponies throughout the Islands and also to become a friend to this rare breed. For further information log onto www.eriskaypony.org.uk