Assateague Island is located on the eastern shore of Maryland it's home of the feral horse. The horses roam free across the island walking anywhere to the beach to playing in the water. The feral horse are known as Chincoteague pony.
Assateague Island is a popular tourist attraction. The Chincoteague pony have been present since the 16th century. Legend has it they were shipwrecked on there way to Peru from two ships off the Virginia coast . However, another legend is during 17th century colonist were brought in by the main land farmers to be not taxed from the main land laws bringing in herds of animals to the island. There are many thoughts and stories about this location to include pirates left them there. Lots of history in this place however this is their land on Assateague Island where they are free and feral.
The Assateague Pony is also treated no different than any other wildlife. They do treat the ponies to administer birth control to keep from being overpopulated on the island. When visiting the island its recommended to keep a safe a distance they have been known to intrude on people's tents, bite, etc. Ponies can become aggressive if they have been treated.
Assateague Island is also part of the barrier islands stretching's from Main to Texas. Assateague Island is 37 miles long and no more than a mile wide. Lots of marsh land along with wildlife including the snowy owl. Its one beautiful place to visit lots to see when in the right place at the right time. This is one of my favorite places to visit and will be returning more with photo and videos. Capturing sunsets to sunrises. The horses do enjoy the beach.
There are strict park rules on Island which are the following.
- Stay back 40 feet from the horses.
- Do not feed the horses.
- If approached by a horse back away slowly.
- Do not go up to the horse to take a selfie horses do bite or become aggressive.
- See Park rules lots of wildlife.
No comments
Post a Comment