Residents in the picturesque New Forest are facing an unexpected nuisance as local donkeys have developed a taste for human leftovers—helping themselves to the contents of council wheelie bins.
The situation has sparked fury among locals, who claim the animals are becoming increasingly bold, tearing open bins and scattering rubbish across streets in their quest for food.
Why Are Donkeys Raiding Bins?
Experts suggest the donkeys, a beloved symbol of the New Forest, have learned that wheelie bins are an easy source of food, particularly in areas where tourists and residents discard edible waste.
"They’re smart animals," says a local wildlife observer. "Once they realise bins contain food, they’ll keep coming back."
Local Backlash Grows
Frustrated residents have taken to social media to vent their anger, with some calling for stricter measures to deter the donkeys.
- "It’s a mess every morning," complained one resident. "They rip open the bags, and rubbish is everywhere."
- "The council needs to act before it gets worse," demanded another.
Council officials have acknowledged the issue but say solutions are not straightforward, as the donkeys are a protected species in the area.
What’s Being Done?
Authorities are exploring options such as securing bins with locks or relocating them to less accessible areas. However, any measures must balance the needs of residents with the protection of the forest’s iconic wildlife.
For now, locals are being urged to ensure bins are tightly closed and to avoid leaving food waste exposed overnight.
