Tiny foal just 43cm tall born at Redwings

Proving great things really do come in tiny packages, Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s biggest star is a foal measuring just 43cm.

Struggling to stand

The spotted miniature Shetland was born on 26 July at Redwings’ headquarters in Norfolk, weighing just 10kg. He has been named Tucker, after a Redwing’s supporter lost her husband and asked for a foal to be named in his memory.

Following a healthy birth, Tucker was brought to the veterinary unit as he was weak and struggling to stand. When he began gaining in strength he was turned out with his mum Beau, who was already in foal when she came to Redwings.

Making friends

Beau was one of a group of Miniature Shetlands brought to the Redwings as their owner was struggling to look after them. Once the mare and foal are back to full health they will take up permanent residence at charity’s Ada Cole visitor centre in Harlow.

Tucker is already making friends and hasmet the office dogRosie the Westie, who is roughly the same size as him.

Absolute delight

“Tucker is an absolute delight and it is lovely to see how this little chap has already captured the hearts of so many at the Sanctuary,” said Redwings chief executive Lynn Cutress.

“He is feeding well and resting contentedly by his mother’s side, and following a few days building his strength he is now most definitely full of energy! He may well be the smallest foal we’ve ever had here at Redwings.”