In the Mekong Delta, a “one-of-a-kind” pair of miniature ponies, along with a host of adorable animals at Dong Tam Snake Farm, are drawing large numbers of visitors eager to explore and experience something new.

Dong Tam Snake Farm, officially known as the Military Region 9 Center for Research, Breeding and Processing of Medicinal Materials, spans 15 hectares in Kim Son Commune, Dong Thap Province, formerly part of Tien Giang. The facility researches, breeds and conserves snakes and pythons, produces traditional medicine and stores most types of antivenom used to treat venomous snakebites across the Mekong Delta.

Beyond its scientific and medical value, Dong Tam Snake Farm has long been a popular tourist destination in southern Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air infused with the scents of the southern orchards while learning about rare species such as albino pythons, king cobras, monkeys, deer and gibbons.

During the Lunar New Year 2026, the farm welcomed new “stars” that are both friendly and distinctive: a pair of miniature ponies considered unique in the Mekong Delta, along with capybara, often dubbed the “diplomats” of the animal world.

In recent days, the appearance of the two ponies has brought lively energy to the grounds. Standing about 70 to 80 centimeters tall and weighing nearly 100 kilograms, their petite build and gentle temperament quickly won over visitors, especially children.

Tran Thi Thom, head of the farm’s breeding team, said the ponies were received from ZooDoo Da Lat more than a month ago. The female, named Trang, is pregnant, while the male is named Ben.

“The ponies have been trained since they were young and are very friendly with people. Visitors can interact directly with them, brush their coats and braid their manes to capture memorable moments,” Thom said.

Many visitors shared their excitement at seeing and touching miniature ponies for the first time. Doan Thien Chi, a tourist from Vinh Long Province, said he had previously only seen such ponies in films or on social media and never imagined encountering them in the Mekong Delta.

“They are very gentle and friendly. I felt no fear touching them. They are tiny and adorable, so the children in my family were thrilled. It is quite a new experience when visiting Dong Tam Snake Farm,” Chi said.

Ngo Thi Ngoc Mai, from Ho Chi Minh City, said her family returned to Dong Thap for Tet and decided to stop by the farm, where they were surprised by the pony pair.

“It is the first time I have been able to stroke and brush a horse without worrying about danger. The space is airy, and staff are there to guide visitors, so it feels very safe. This is a big plus for experiential tourism, especially for families with young children,” Mai said.

Alongside the ponies, the farm is currently caring for three capybara weighing between 4 and 7 kilograms. They are housed in a separate area with a small pool for recreation, a quiet shelter and a carefully controlled diet mainly consisting of vegetables to ensure healthy digestion.

The farm has also introduced a pair of meerkats, small and agile animals that add diversity to the ecosystem and enrich visitors’ experiences.

In addition, Dong Tam Snake Farm raises deer and currently maintains around 2,000 snakes from 40 different species in natural and semi-natural environments.

By continuously introducing friendly and approachable animals, Dong Tam Snake Farm is strengthening its appeal as a destination that offers close-to-nature experiences, particularly during holidays and Tet celebrations.