Born on Saturday 26th July, Tucker has already brought great joy to staff at Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s headquarters in Norfolk.
Tucker the spotted Miniature Shetland is a titchy 43cm tall – that’s less than 17 inches! He weighs just 10kg.
He was so named on behalf of a Redwings supporter who had sadly lost her husband and asked for a foal to be named in his memory. Despite his size he has already made a huge impression on the veterinary team and care staff at the centre. After a healthy birth Tucker was brought into the veterinary unit at Redwings’ Hapton site on Sunday as he was a bit weak and was struggling to stand, but following some rest in the stables Tucker is growing stronger by the hour.
Subsequently, Tucker and his mother have been turned out into a paddock that is still within sight of the veterinary unit – and his devoted fans! Teeny Tucker can now be seen frolicking and darting about his new home, followed by a fair few naps. He also recently met office dog Rosie the Westie, who is about his equivalent in height!
Commenting on the little foal’s arrival, Redwings Chief Executive Lynn Cutress said: “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. 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.”
Tucker’s mum Beau arrived at Redwings in foal as part of a group of Miniature Shetlands. They were brought to Redwings from an owner in Essex who had been struggling to cope with their care. It is hoped that once mother and baby are back to full strength they’ll take up permanent residence at Redwings’ Ada Cole visitor centre in Harlow so the public can come and marvel at Tucker’s tiny size too (open daily, free entry)!
