It has been reported, that a foal, with an unusual spotted coating was born to a chocolate brown mare a week ago. The foal shares its coloring with its father, which is a British spotted horse.

The colt is has been christened Spotty, which is in keeping with the color of the coat. The foal was born in Wembury Point, near Plymouth, although his family usually grazes on Dartmoor.

It has been reported that British spotted ponies come in different colors. One exemplary combination found is white spots on a dark background, which are called "snowflake".

Spotty on the other hand has a black coat spotted with white dots. This combination is leopard spot.

It is reported that these markings are an inherent camouflage for ponies, which were native to the heaths and forests of Britain. These ponies have been found in several Stone Age paintings and in ancient literature.

It is believed that during Roman era, these horses were gifted to prestigious officers in recognition of their power.  In present times, approximately 170 ponies are born in Britain each year.