Warning as stallions released on New Forest and their minds will not be on the roads!
Drivers urged to be extra vigilant and walkers to give them more space
Last updated 10th May 2021
20 stallions will be out on the New Forest from today until the 12th of July.
They are being turned out in specific areas including Woodgreen, Ibsley and Minstead.
Every year a number of approved stallions are let out to help maintain the New Forest as a breed.
For the next eight weeks all the ponies will be more active and we're being urged to drive with even more care.
Officials stress the stallions' minds "will not be on the roads" and the mares behaviour will be more erratic and potentially dangerous.
Ahead of today's release the New Forest National Park Authority shared this video, shot a few years, ago to showcase the stallions behaviour.
The New Forest Roads Awareness group is asking all motorists to take extra care.
"They could head towards roads, at speed and they will not stop. You must be prepared to."
"40 mph is the limit, and not a target. Better to get where you want to go safely, than not at all."
Walkers or anyone out riding should also keep clear of the ponies whilst dog owners are reminded to keep dogs under close control and on leads if required.
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