The New Forest (on the Hampshire/Dorset border)
England has 10 National Parks (which seems a lot, but actually is nothing like many other countries (Turkey has over 60). We also have National Landscapes (the new name for Areas of Outstanding Beauty). The idea is that nobody can come along and build on them, so here’s hoping to protect birds and native wildlife. And provide lovely walking holidays for outdoorsy-people!
When out walking, always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe. At the coast, read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.
The New Forest contains the largest expanse of lowland heath in southern England, a habitat now rarer than rainforest. Home to some of oldest trees in western Europe (some over 1000 years old), it’s a diverse patchwork of ancient woodland, heathland and coast (with 75% of the world’s dragonflies found here).
The New Forest Verderers employ five Agisters whose oversee all grazing wild ponies, livestock, cattle, donkeys, pigs and sheep (but not deer or other wild animals).
Never disturb or feed wild ponies. For concerns, contact the Verderer and Agisters website. Road traffic accidents involving ponies, cattle, donkeys, pigs and sheep must be reported immediately on 999.
