Dramatic photographs show Wicken Nature Reserve’s Konik ponies fighting for dominance in front of the picturesque Fenland backdrop as foaling season begins.

Snapper Terry Harris captured the moment at the National Trust site in Wicken near Ely as the powerful Polish ponies reared up on their hind legs.

Ely Standard: Konik ponies fight for dominance at the National Trust's Wicken Fen Nature Reserve.Konik ponies fight for dominance at the National Trust's Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. (Image: © Terry Harris)

Carol Laidlaw, grazing ranger at Wicken Fen, said: “During the mating season, males can engage in sparring, which is a natural part of their behaviour, it dissipates quickly with very few injuries.

Ely Standard: Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve.Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. (Image: © Terry Harris)

“Horses aren’t territorial, but the lead males of a family group will keep other males away through displaying and sparring.

Ely Standard: Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve.Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. (Image: © Terry Harris)

“At a younger age, males often play fight and nip each other’s feet out from one another, as part of their development.”

Ely Standard: Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve.Konik Ponies on Wicken Fen Nature Reserve. (Image: © Terry Harris)

She said that while the display looks “spectacular” it is not a common event in herd life, adding: “Horses spend most of their time grazing, sleeping and forming bonds with one another.”