Shire horses and other heavy horse breeds are on the brink of extinction, a stark contrast to their vital historical role in labor, according to a five-star review of the BBC One documentary "Our Lives: Workhorse." Despite their declining numbers, with fewer than 1,500 Shire horses remaining in existence compared to nearly 2,000 giant pandas, the program underscores their potential value in contemporary applications.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Britain alone had approximately three million heavy horses. The documentary showcases how these animals, though rare, can still be invaluable working partners. The program featured Kate Mobbs-Morgan, who utilizes continental breeds such as Ardennes and Brabants for forestry work. These breeds are described as stockier and more rugged, making them well-suited for dragging logs in challenging woodland terrain.
Mobbs-Morgan, who established her business over 20 years ago, works in areas inaccessible or unsuitable for machinery. The documentary captured the deep bond between her and her horses, including Kipp, a 22-year-old nearing retirement, and Quinlan. She is also training younger horses, Garth and Brighid.
The half-hour documentary, filmed across Dorset, Yorkshire, and the Forest of Dean, demonstrated the animals' responsiveness to commands. Mobbs-Morgan's instructions, such as "Come over" and "Get away," guided the horses effectively. The program also highlighted their skills at a horse loggers' gathering in Otley, where Kipp and Quin expertly maneuvered logs through hoops and balanced them on stands.
The review suggests that investing in heavy horses could be a sustainable alternative to developing green vehicles, as horses require only hay and water and their waste provides natural fertilizer. The documentary presented a compelling, albeit brief, look at how these magnificent creatures could continue to play a significant role.