The initiative, known as Operation Mountie, brought together officers from New Forest Police, New Forest Roads Awareness, Forestry England and New Forest National Park Authority.

The enforcement took place along a long, straight stretch of Hawkhill road identified as a hotspot for livestock collisions.

Officers stopped a total of nine drivers and riders, with the highest recorded speed at 58mph.

A motorcyclist was believed to have been travelling faster but slowed down significantly before being stopped.

Five drivers were issued tickets, while four others received educational advice.

Officials said more offenders might have been caught, but some motorists were seen flashing their headlights to warn others of the police presence.

Posting on Facebook, they said: “We would have got more, but there seems to be a practice to Flash to warn other drivers we are there.

“This is a double edged sword.

“Saving someone from getting a fine, but also reminding people to slow down.”

However, authorities raised concerns over a lack of public awareness around what to do in the event of a livestock collision.

Officers said none of the drivers spoken to knew the correct procedure.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce animal deaths and improve road safety across the New Forest.

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