New signs to deter people from feeding and stroking ponies in the New Forest
The area is expected to see an influx of visitors this summer
Fresh steps are being taken to try to stop people feeding and touching ponies and donkeys in the New Forest.
Thanks to an initiative between the Verderers and the Commoners Defence Association 16 large mobile signs are being installed at a range of locations warning people not to interact with the livestock.
Last year following an increase in visitors some ponies had learnt to hang around cars for petting and food which in turn increases the risk of being involved in a road accident.
Ponies can also get aggressive and may have to be removed from the Forest.
Charlotte Lines is chair of the New Forest Commoners Defence Association:
"The aim of the signs is to educate Forest visitors. We really don't want them to interact with our animals, we don't want them to be fed or petted as these actions can have serious consequences. Animals can become too friendly, it changes their behaviour and they get drawn out into the roads. In some instances where they've been fed the wrong thing it's lead to animals dying."
One woman knows only too well the dangers of giving livestock food they shouldn't have.
In January Erika Dovey's mare was found choking on carrots left in large chunks on the roadside near Beaulieu.
The feeding had caused irreparable damage to her throat and she had to be put down.
Erika, who is also a ranger for the National Park Authority, told Greatest Hits Radio that many people think they are being kind but warned feeding ponies and donkeys could lead a death sentence.
"Please do not try and feed them because ultimately it does them so much harm and can prove fatal by choking or can cause colic (tummy ache)."
The New Forest Commoners Defence Association says there's no need to offer livestock treats.
"The ponies have plenty of natural food they browse and graze all day. They are specially adapted for life out in the New Forest."