VISITORS to the New Forest are being urged to keep clear of frisky stallions seeking a mate.

A total of 18 stallions have been set free for the annual breeding season and will be allowed to roam the Forest until July.

Members of the public are being warned to keep their distance as the ponies' behaviour can be "unpredictable".

The New Forest Verderers, who regulate livestock in the area, are advising visitors not to walk through pony herds and to keep dogs under close control.

They are anxious to prevent walkers, horse riders, and dog owners from being injured by stallions chasing a mare.

Stallions are allowed onto the Forest for only eight to nine weeks to limit the number of foals born each year.

Before the scheme was introduced up to 100 roamed the area all year round. The resulting surplus of foals meant some of them fetched only a few pounds at auction.

The current system aims to produce quality, not quantity.

A spokesperson for the verderers said: "For 2023, 18 stallions will be on the Forest from 9th May and will be in by 10th July.

"As always, please give them a wide berth as all ponies’ behaviour during this time will be unpredictable."