Marchegg horse pastures

Konik ponies: to marvel at & observe!

Horse fan? Then the March wetlands in Marchegg are just the place! Konik ponies live here, the great-grandchildren of the European wild horse, on pastureland spanning around 70 hectares. On hikes and walks throughout the year with a little bit of luck you might catch sight of the ponies.

A few years ago as part of a grazing project, Konik ponies were settled in the wetland areas around Marchegg. On pastureland spanning around 70 ha, they have a key role to play in the natural development of the wetland landscape. The grazing ponies prevent the meadows from overgrowing, clear forests and keep the ground clear with their hooves. This benefits endangered species including the white stork and wild bees.

Konik ponies: great-grandchildren of European wild horses

The Konik pony is a primeval horse breed from Poland and is closely related to the extinct European wild horse. Koniks are very well suited to life in the March wetlands since the animals have similar conditions as they would find in their homeland. Although they seem delicate like other ponies, they are exceptionally robust and undemanding. Translated, the Polish word 'Konik' means 'little horse'.

Your visit to Marchegg's nature reserve

The ponies are not particularly large, but they are wild and for that reason, petting etc. is not advisable. Especially when it comes to protecting their young or when the stallions are vying for mares' attention, you see why they are described as wild horses. But don't worry – the animals are not dangerous, but you should show them respect! There is no guarantee that you will see the ponies during your visit to Marchegg nature reserve. The 70 ha pasture area provides plenty of scope for them to retreat. Yet the ponies are not really that shy, so with a bit of luck they might cross your hiking path.