I deeply care about animal welfare and believe that all animals deserve protection, care, and responsible management. This conviction drives me to appeal to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, alongside the Welsh Government and the UK Government, to provide funding and support for the welfare and sustainable management of ponies on the Black Mountains.

The Black Mountains, spanning the border between England and South Wales, are home to a large population of free-roaming ponies. While there are efforts in place to manage and monitor these animals, changing environmental conditions, limited grazing availability, and natural population growth have placed increasing pressure on both the ponies and the land.

As a result, some ponies are experiencing poor body condition, parasite burdens, and seasonal feed shortages, particularly during harsher months. There are currently few charities and locals working towards long-term solutions, but these ponies can’t wait, they’ve been waiting and many have lost their lives waiting. The scale of the population means these efforts required need greater financial support to be effective.

This petition is about raising funds to support an Immediate plan as well as supporting the long-term management underway. Without additional resources, it becomes increasingly difficult to rehabilitate, maintain welfare standards and prevent future problems associated with overpopulation and limited forage.

By supporting this campaign, the Government can help protect animal welfare, safeguard the fragile upland environment, and ensure that immediate care and appropriate management can be carried out.

By signing this petition, you are asking DEFRA and both the Welsh and English Governments to support and fund responsible, humane management of the Black Mountains ponies, helping to secure a stable and sustainable future for both the animals and the landscape they inhabit.

Please sign to support this vital work.