New Forest foal season approaching

Foal season is almost upon us, meaning the first of the New Forest foals will be emerging over the next few weeks.

The foals are the offspring of the stallions turned out last summer which means they are both sired and born on the Forest.

The foals’ arrival coincides with the spring grass and it is hoped that this, along with better weather, will provide them with the best conditions to develop and thrive.

This signals an important time of year for New Forest commoners, with the majority of the ponies out on the Forest pure-bred with bloodlines that span generations.

It forms a small but significant part of the rich history and culture of New Forest commoning and commoners, who play a hugely important role in managing the landscape.

If you’re enjoying the National Park, please be extra cautious around grazing animals and in particular the foals given their unpredictability and lack of road sense.