TWO magnificent Shire horses have been carrying out vital conservation work in Bushy Park this week.

The creatures, which are rarer than pandas, are working with two handlers to manage the park's reed-beds.

The pair drive a horse-drawn cutter over the beds, cutting them down to ground level and opening up waterways so the habitat can be maintained - helping the park's ecosystem and wildlife.

This return to traditional park management isn't just for show, however.

The animals offer many benefits compared to heavy machinery, according to Operation Centaur which manages a herd at Richmond Park.

Harder to reach areas can be accessed more easily, wildlife is less disturbed by noise or impact on the soil, and horse work has a low carbon footprint.

Shire horses were commonly used for working the land one hundred years ago and it is estimated there were once over a million in the UK.

Now, there are less than 3,000, and just ten are based at Operation Centaur in Richmond Park.

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Known for their laid-back and docile temperament, the horses are phenomenal weight-pullers and were historically used for carting ale from breweries to public houses.

Today the horses help with conservation and forestry work and are also valued for their heritage, offering seasonal carriage rides to anyone wanting to take a trip back through time.

Learn more about Operation Centaur and Richmond Park's Shire Horses HERE