Ocracoke Island Viewing platforms give visitors a glimpse into the paddocks and the daily life of these horses, which is far removed from their wild cousins. Visit Outdoor NC for additional tips on how to connect with nature and help preserve the natural beauty of our state.
Are there wild horses on Ocracoke Island?
Some of the most popular Ocracoke locals are the Wild Ponies, which are protected in a secluded 180 acre area enclosure on the soundside of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, but can still be enjoyed by anyone passing through the island on NC Highway 12.
How many wild horses are in Ocracoke?
First recorded by locals in 1730, at one point Ocracoke Island boasted 300 or so wild horses, but today less than 20 horses call the island home. This remaining herd has been fenced in and protected by the NPS since the 1960s, and continue to be some of the island’s most beloved local legends.
Where are the horses on Ocracoke?
Visitors can catch a glimpse of the Ocracoke ponies in the fenced in area located close to the feeding stations. This area, referred to as the Ocracoke Pony Pen, is located on NC Hwy 12 between the Ocracoke/Hatteras Inlet ferry landing and Ocracoke Village, about seven miles north of the village.
What is the best time to see the horses in Outer Banks?
While it is possible to do a self-guided journey, the best bet for seeing the wild horses of Corolla is to book a tour with one of the reputable companies in the OBX. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourism season in June and July.
What beach has the most wild horses?
Assateague’s Wild Horses – Assateague Island National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)
Are there alligators on Ocracoke?
There are no recorded alligators in the sound, but the region is home to thousands of migrating birds, deer, reptiles, and the famed Ocracoke Banker horses, or Ocracoke Wild Ponies.
Are there rattlesnakes on Ocracoke Island?
In August, a video surfaced on Facebook of a large rattlesnake swimming in the surf at the northeast end of Ocracoke Island. The video showed the reptile slithering out to sea, with its head above the water.
Are there sharks in Ocracoke?
Ocracoke is no stranger to visits from sharks.
Can you see wild horses in Corolla without a tour?
Self-Drive to See the Corolla Wild Horses for Free
As the horses are free roaming among the sand dunes of Corolla and Carova, you can visit them on your own for free! You just need a four wheel drive vehicle as you’ll be driving onto the sand beaches in search of these beautiful creatures.
What’s special about Ocracoke?
Ocracoke Island is famous for its exceptional shelling and is one of the best shelling destinations on the Outer Banks. Popular finds include whelks, olive shells, moon shells, and the North Carolina State Shell, the Scotch Bonnet.
Is Ocracoke worth visiting?
Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks is a wonderful place to visit! And for years I felt like the only person on the east coast who had never been there. But that changed with our first trip to Ocracoke, our foray into the Outer Banks. We’ve returned since because Ocracoke is just so darn enjoyable!
Where is the best place to see wild horses on the Outer Banks?
Where to Spot OBX Horses in the Wild. The wild horses live primarily in the northern portion of the Outer Banks, which includes Corolla and Carova Beach. The horses roam the northern portion of Currituck Beach, which is a rural area with little development.
Can you drive to see wild horses in Outer Banks?
The Corolla Wild Horses can be found on the northern beaches of Corolla and Carova. This area is only accessible by four wheel drive vehicles because you must drive on the beach itself. Be sure you read our county beach driving tips before setting out on your self-guided tour.
Can you pet the wild horses in the Outer Banks?
Can you pet the Corolla Wild Horses? It is illegal to approach, touch, or pet the Corolla Wild horses. Visitors must remain at least 50 feet away from the wild horses.
How many wild horses are left at the Outer Banks?
Several herds of wild horses—totaling around 400 in total—live throughout the barrier islands and have become a sought-after tourist attraction in their own right. They can be seen strolling along the beaches and wooded areas near Cape Lookout, Beaufort, Ocracoke, and Corolla.
What island in NC has wild horses?
Shackleford Banks, the southern-most barrier island in Cape Lookout National Seashore, is home to more than 100 wild horses.
Where is the largest herd of wild horses?
Feral horse populations
Australia has the largest population in the world, with in excess of 400,000 horses. The Australian name equivalent to the mustang is the brumby, descendants of horses brought to Australia by English settlers.
Which state has the most wild horses?
Nevada
Nevada is home to nearly half of the nation’s free-roaming horse population. Many of those horses are part of the Virginia Range herd, which occupies a region in the western part of the state.
Can you swim in Ocracoke?
The seashore is an enjoyable place for swimming, but rough surf and rip currents can turn a fun visit into a frightening one. Tides, waves, and winds constantly barrage these barrier islands. Even at the shore’s edge, crashing waves can pick you up and throw you to the sandy bottom causing injuries.
What animals are on Ocracoke Island?
The beach has scurrying Sanderlings and more stately Willets. The Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the federally protected land which comprises most of the island, has Eastern Meadowlarks, Boat-tailed Grackles, White Ibis, and several species of herons and egrets.