Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has spoken about his conservation efforts for rare breeds on his farm.

Adam Henson has expressed his worries following the birth of two new additions to his farm.

The 60-year-old runs his own farming enterprise while hosting BBC One’s Countryfile from his Gloucestershire base at Bemborough Farm. The site also functions as the Cotswolds Farm Park, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

In the most recent Countryfile episode (February 1), Adam discussed safeguarding a rare pony breed after two new foals were born.

Focusing on the horses, which include donkeys, horses, and his Exmoor ponies, Adam noted that the magnificent herd roams freely and possesses a remarkable coat that provides warmth.

Whilst gathering his ponies to return them to their enclosures, the farmer outlined the steps he implements to guarantee their protection, including microchipping, reports the Mirror.

Adam Henson on Countryfile
Adam Henson has opened-up about proecting rare Exmoor Ponies on Countryfile (Image: BBC)

All horses require a passport within 12 months of being born, and Adam invited vet Millie to the farm to document the particulars of the new arrivals, Roxy and Rosie.

The foals also needed to be microchipped and have a DNA sample collected. Adam clarified that the DNA samples were necessary to verify each foal’s genetic heritage, and the microchip establishes ownership, safeguarding the animal’s welfare as they are extremely “precious”.

Adam said: “Not only is it important for the rule of the land to have these ponies microchipped and their passports put together, but also for the Exmoor Pony Society and particularly for the breed itself, before the Exmoor Pony is still very rare.

“There’s only a couple of thousand of them worldwide, and in the UK there’s only about 200 foals born every year, so every one is precious. So we’re really just doing our bit for rare breeds conservation and keeping this gorgeous breed going.”

Exmoor Ponies on Countryfile

Adam Henson’s Exmoor Ponies are a rare breed (Image: BBC)

Adam later added, “This tracking is important to prove the breed’s identity and safeguard diversity when planning further breeding.”

The farmer has been sharing wisdom and animal expertise from his Cotswold Farm Park in Gloucestershire since 2001.

Adam took inspiration from his father to pursue both farming and television work, fondly recalling Joe’s unwavering support and how he would telephone following every broadcast to either commend his performance or offer constructive feedback.

Outside his television work, the presenter treasures time with his wife, Charlotte, with whom he has been together since their teenage years. The couple are parents to two adult children, Alfie and Ella.

Countryfile airs Sundays on BBC One and iPlayer