Tunis — Somewhere among the forests of North Western Tunisia, stands the natural reserve of Djebel Khroufa, which stretches over some 125 hectares.

The reserve which is located between the towns of Nefza and Tabarka, is the sanctuary of one of the world's endangered species, the "Mogod", also known as the Tunisian pony. Only 12 of them are currently living on the reserve.

This rare breed, which is considered part of the country's heritage, is believed to be a primitive indigenous breed and used to be found in the mountainous parts of Nefza, Mateur, Ain Draham, and Tabarka. The pony which stands between 1.20 m and 1.40m (see photo) with a rather heavy but well set head, is well adapted to mountain journeys.

It was also very in demand for drawing small carts and polo playing. Between 1905 and 1905, 300 Mogod ponies were exported from Tunisia to Malta, India and Italy, whence the sharp decrease of its numbers.

Moreover, following unfortunate breeding practices, the breed lost some of its essential qualities; whence the elaboration of a national strategy for preserving this rare species within the precinct of Djebel Khroufa natural reserve, which was set up thanks to a Tunisian-Japanese cooperation project funded by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and coordinated by the Tunisian Forestry Board.

Apart from acting as a precious nurturing place for this endangered species, the reserve is also a favorite place among children who are attracted by this unusual looking and well -sized horse.