Visitors warned not to touch Dartmoor Ponies after tragedy
Walkers are being urged not to approach Dartmoor ponies after a newborn foal died.
Well-meaning ramblers thought the pony had been abandoned by its mother and attempted to rescue him. They alerted Dartmoor Hill Pony Group, which tried to nurse the animal, but it died a few days later.
Anyone who comes across a foal in difficulty should take careful note of where it is then call the Dartmoor livestock protection officer on 07873 587561
Charlotte Faulkner from the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association is currently nursing an orphaned foal. Its mother was struck by a car and the youngster was handed into her care by the Dartmoor livestock protection officer.
It has been adopted by a mare in her care and stands a good chance of surviving.
She too is urging people not to interfere with the wildlife but report any concerns. Sometimes an animal that seems to have been left to fend for itself is not abandoned at all.
The National Park Authority is also reminding visitors not to try to feed the animals, which is in fact illegal.
The best way people can help is to monitor the welfare of the young ponies. Just take a photo and upload it to the Facebook site Dartmoor Foal Watch with any notes so they can keep a distant eye on them and intervene if necessary.