New Forest Wildlife

The forest is a living and working place where ponies and cattle freely graze the land and help to keep the patchwork of different habitats intact. Deeper in the forest, wild deer browse beneath canopies of mighty oak and beech - natural scenes unchanged by the modern world.

The open heaths of The New Forest are ideal basking grounds for adders and grass snakes, and the many pools dotted around the area make ideal conditions for frogs, toads and lizards. All of these can be seen at The New Forest Reptile Centre, which also offers woodland trails.

There are dozens of events throughout the year to help you get close to nature - from Dawn Chorus Walks to Deer Watches.

Try exploring the forest at different times of year and at different times of day. The forest is most atmospheric at dusk - you also stand the best chance of seeing deer, bats and nightjars.