With the autumn pony drifts under way, New Forest ponies are now more visible to drivers in the National Park thanks to reflective collars.
The collars are fitted at the end of a drift – when ponies are rounded up for their annual health checks and marking – to help drivers spot them more easily, particularly in low light.
Funded through the Verderers of the New Forest Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme, the collars are one of several practical measures supporting the protection of Commoners’ livestock and the vital commoning tradition, as well as helping to improve road safety.
Working together to reduce animal accidents
Reflective collars form part of a wider effort to reduce animal accidents across the New Forest. A range of initiatives are helping to raise awareness, encourage safer driving and protect the Forest’s free-roaming animals.
These include the New Forest Roads Awareness campaign group on Facebook, the police-led Operation Mountie, New Forest Drive Safe business group and the salt lick scheme which aims to encourage livestock away from roads treated with salt during winter weather.
Take extra care this autumn
As the days get shorter and the mornings and evenings become darker, drivers in the National Park are reminded to take extra care when travelling through the Forest.
Slow down, stay alert and be prepared for ponies and other livestock to appear near to roads or step in to cross them. Be particularly careful at dawn and dusk, when animals can be harder to see.
By driving responsibly and looking out for livestock, everyone can play a role in making the Forest’s roads safer for animals and people alike.