Palomino foal surprise delivery thrills holiday park guests

Lucky visitors to a Dartmouth holiday park earlier this month were on hand to witness the birth of a beautiful tiny palomino foal at the centre’s zoo-farm.

The unscheduled attraction took place at Woodlands Family Theme Park when mum Tinker bucked the usual custom of ponies to give birth at night.

In front of a quickly-gathering crowd of onlookers, the Shetland gave a fuss-free delivery to the little colt with its distinctive palomino gold coat and white mane.

Almost immediately, the foal was up on its feet and – to the delight of spectators – taking its first tentative steps.

Also keeping a careful eye on proceedings in the enclosure was the new-born’s father Freddie, a miniature Shetland who is also palomino in colouring.

Measuring just 60cm tall, the as-yet unnamed little foal and his mum are now both doing fine and happy to receive visitors, according to head zookeeper Michaela Newham.

Set in 90 acres of Devon countryside, the family-run holiday park is a wildlife wonderland for families with its huge stock of animal species, including a falconry centre with more than 40 birds of prey.

A member of the Best of British parks group, Woodlands’ accolades include the Alan Rogers “Best Family Campsite in Europe” award, and the “AA Campsite of the Year” award.

For more information, see the park’s website at www.woodlandspark.com