Rare breed New Forest stallions are being released onto the Forest today for breeding season.
A total of 25 specially selected stallions will be turned out in specific areas for up to 6 weeks, helping maintain the quality and bloodlines of the rare breed New Forest pony.
The stallions are owned by local Commoners and licensed by the Verderers of the New Forest, who oversee the commoning system. This year’s turnout areas include Woodgreen, Wootton, Burley, Beaulieu Road and Fritham.
They are permitted to remain out until Monday 22 June, although they can be brought in from Monday 15 June. People are being reminded that stallions are powerful animals and can behave unpredictably during breeding season.
Visitors are urged to admire them from a distance, avoid approaching or touching them and never feed them. Feeding the animals could lead to a fine under the Public Space Protection Order.
Dog owners are also being asked to keep dogs under close control around all livestock, while drivers are urged to take extra care on Forest roads, especially at dawn and dusk.
The New Forest’s free-roaming ponies play an important role in maintaining the National Park’s internationally important habitats through grazing.
Since 2010, the New Forest Higher Level Stewardship scheme has supported grazing for up to 30 stallions each year, encouraging Commoners to keep stallions and provide land for them outside the breeding season.
More at newforestnpa.gov.uk.
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