An outbreak of strangles among the wild New Forest ponies is spreading, according to an article in The Salisbury Journal, a United Kingdom weekly newspaper. (Read the full Journal article here.)

Although no definite numbers have been released, reports indicate more than 10 ponies are currently infected, according to the article.

The New Forest pony herd includes around 4,000 animals. The ponies are privately owned, but run wild in the 93,000-acre forest. They are collected annually for sales of young stock, and veterinary care. It is believed the outbreak started in a boarding barn before entering the pony population.

New Forest Pony Association and Registry President Linda Kindle likens the arrangement to a wildlife sanctuary. She says while the ponies run wild, they are closely monitored.

Since the outbreak, only dangerously ill ponies have been removed from their herds for veterinary care, noted the article. Those not considered to be in mortal danger continue to roam