The New Forest National Park Authority and New Forest Marque have told people to stop dumping their leftover pumpkins from Halloween and instead turn them into easy-to-cook meals.
It is said that pumpkins left on the forest floor every year pose "a real threat to free-roaming animals" and can cause serious digestive issues for ponies.
The leftover food waste attracts animals to roadsides and increases the risk of road traffic incidents.
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James Masser, from the New Forest National Park Authority, said: "Every year we find pumpkins left all over the New Forest, often by well-meaning people who are unaware that they can be harmful to wildlife and livestock.
"They can cause stomach issues such as colic and choke in ponies, which can be potentially fatal if not spotted and treated."
In light of this, New Forest Marque has partnered with Lyndhurst chef Sutti Se-Upara to show how people can put their leftover pumpkins to good use in the kitchen.
Thai-style pumpkin and king prawn stir fry using a pumpkin locally sourced.(Image: New Forest National Park Authority)
In a short video, Sutti, owner of Anissa's Thai Kitchen and Deli, shows how to make a Thai-style pumpkin and king prawn stir fry using a pumpkin locally sourced from New Forest Marque member Dan Tanner's Sopley Farm.
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Sutti said: "Pumpkins come in all shapes and sizes and are often used in Thai cooking as they are naturally sweet and versatile.
"This stir fry is quick and simple and a great way to use up leftovers."
If people are unable to cook with their leftover pumpkins, they are encouraged to compost them or put them in their food waste bin after cutting them up.
Anyone who sees pumpkins dumped on the forest is asked to collect them if it is safe to do so.
If this is not possible, the location of the pumpkins can be reported to Forestry England on 0300 067 4600, ideally using a 'what3words' location reference.
The pumpkin and king prawn recipe is available on the New Forest Marque website.