Discover Animals’ Geoff Moore delves into the world of Pannage in this latest video, where pigs are released into the New Forest in Hampshire to eat the acorns from the many oak trees that grow there.
This is a service which helps to save the lives of other animals as the acorns are very poisonous to ponies and cattle as Andrew Parry-Norton, a farmer living in the forest, explains to Geoff. Each Autumn, he allows his pigs to roam the forest in order to eat up the millions of acorns that fall to the floor.
He discusses the roles of the Verderers and Agisters who are very much the guardians of the area. Their vehicles can be seen driving around the forest dealing with animal concerns or pointing tourists in the right direction. Pigs, sheep, cattle, wild ponies and donkeys are all allowed to wander the forest, grazing as they go. Animals are rounded up on a regular basis, which is called a ‘drift’ here by the New Forest locals.
Visiting this newest of National Parks from September onwards to November, you are very likely to see many more pigs than at any other time.
Ideal for walking and cycling and with some really gorgeous accommodation, it makes a great place for a weekend break. The Bell Inn at Brook near Bramshaw on the northern side of the forest would be my choice for a stay. Located a very short drive from the M27/A31 at Cadnam and you are soon right in the forest! Currently the hotel has many offers running including dogs stay free in November and cosy room stays for £149 until 20th December. For more see https://bellinn-newforest.co.uk/
Minutes from the hotel, you can be walking or cycling over the forested landscape, taking in the sights and smells of the forest. It was once the hunting haunt of William the Conqueror and is now perfect for spotting animals both large and small.
Walking in the woods or heaths getting away from the traffic is very much what staying in this area is about, with a diverse range of plants, insects and reptiles all not to be missed. Although the ponies are certainly lovely to look at, Â they are in fact wild so you do have to be aware of that.
The whole area of the New Forest is working hard to build a reputation as a culinary centre with many of the hotels, inns and restaurants getting together to market the New Forest produce including Andrew’s business. For more visit https://thecommonerslarder.co.uk/
New Forest, Hampshire and South Downs Pathfinder Walking Guide
£11.09
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