• Link to Facebook
  • Link to Instagram
  • Link to Youtube

INSTANT DONATE

Instant Donate

  • Shopping Cart Shopping Cart
    0Shopping Cart
Corolla Wild Horse Fund
  • Home
  • Raymond Memorial Wall
  • Support the Horses
    • 2025 Year End Campaign
    • One Time Donations
    • Memberships
    • Horse Sponsorships
    • Tributes
    • Owners are Donors
    • Wedding Program
    • Habitat Preservation Initiative
    • Legacy Society
    • Hay For a Day
    • Volunteer
  • Learn
    • Spanish Mustang History
    • Corolla Wild Horse Fund History
    • Herd Management
    • Rescue & Rehabilitation
    • Mustang Mornings
    • FAQs
    • Currituck County Ordinances, NC Laws, Federal Laws
    • Legislation
    • Community Wild Horse Toolkit
  • News
    • Newsletters
    • Newsletter Sign Up
    • Press Coverage
    • CWHF Social Media
  • Events
  • Contact
    • Request an Educational Program
    • Meet the Staff
    • Job Opportunities
  • Community Cares
  • Toolkit
  • Shop
    • Accessories
    • Adult Apparel
    • Butts to the Wind
    • Books
    • CWHF Calendar
    • Childrens Apparel
    • Community Toolkit
    • Digital Downloads
    • Featured Products
    • Caps
    • House and Home
    • Jewelry
    • Michael Middleton
      • Michael Middleton Art
      • Michael Middleton Ceramics
    • Photography and Canvas
      • Kris Corolla Photos and Canvas
    • Toys
  • Click to open the search input field Click to open the search input field Search
  • Menu Menu
Blog - Latest News
You are here: Home1 / Shop – Test2 / Six of One, Half Dozen of the Other3 / IMG-7688

IMG-7688

October 29, 2018/by Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Share this entry
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on X
  • Share on Pinterest
  • Share on LinkedIn
  • Share on Tumblr
  • Share on Reddit
  • Share by Mail
https://www.corollawildhorses.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/CWHF-holiday-logo-2x.png 0 0 Corolla Wild Horse Fund https://www.corollawildhorses.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/CWHF-holiday-logo-2x.png Corolla Wild Horse Fund2018-10-29 12:22:562018-10-29 12:24:37IMG-7688

Latest News

  • Mare foal ladder
    All’s Well and Ends WellMay 23, 2025 - 12:40 pm
  • Introducing FollyApril 11, 2025 - 10:45 am
  • Riptide Goes to Raleigh!April 9, 2025 - 10:48 am
  • Announcing the first foal of 2025March 21, 2025 - 2:39 pm
  • Remembering RaymondNovember 6, 2024 - 1:20 pm

Facebook Feed

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
19 hours ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

We are open from 10am-8pm today and tomorrow!

Experience Christmas in Corolla and get into the holiday spirit. 🎄We’ve got something for everyone on your list and proceeds go directly towards caring for the wild herd and the horses on the farm. Shop local and make a difference! 🐴🎁

There are lots events and activities taking place around the village all weekend long - more info: northernouterbanks.com/signature-event/christmas-in-corolla/

We are located at 1130E Corolla Village Road, right behind the bookstore and next to the chapel. Or you can shop online anytime: www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/ Order by December 14 for delivery before Christmas!
... See MoreSee Less

We are open from 10am-8pm today and tomorrow! 

Experience Christmas in Corolla and get into the holiday spirit. 🎄We’ve got something for everyone on your list and proceeds go directly towards caring for the wild herd and the horses on the farm. Shop local and make a difference! 🐴🎁

There are lots events and activities taking place around the village all weekend long - more info: https://northernouterbanks.com/signature-event/christmas-in-corolla/ 

We are located at 1130E Corolla Village Road, right behind the bookstore and next to the chapel. Or you can shop online anytime: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/ Order by December 14 for delivery before Christmas!
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 150
  • Shares: 12
  • Comments: 1

1 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
2 days ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Happy Thanksgiving! ... See MoreSee Less

Happy Thanksgiving!
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love wow 1047
  • Shares: 39
  • Comments: 49

49 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
4 days ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

This morning (Tuesday, November 25, 2025) we relocated wild stallion Topnotch to our farm sanctuary on the mainland due to habituation that resulted in him becoming food conditioned and aggressive.

Over the last several years Topnotch became increasingly resistant to being moved away from perceived food sources, and also became increasingly aggressive and confrontational towards anyone who attempted to redirect him. Associating humans with food led him to begin seeking people out, and reacting dangerously whether food was present or not.

This kind of behavior is extremely difficult to correct in a wild animal, especially when the habituation is related to food and humans. Despite repeated attempts to discourage Topnotch’s behavior, he became a serious threat to public safety. Over the last several months our herd management team, along with our board of directors and multiple concerned residents, discussed different management options. It was ultimately agreed upon that relocation would be in the best interests of the horse and the community.

While removal is always the last resort, when wild animals and humans live in close proximity to each other there is always a risk of conflict. In these cases we sometimes have to make very difficult decisions in an effort to maintain a balance between public safety and wildlife. Despite the many difficulties associated with decisions like these, we are very fortunate to have a place for horses like Topnotch to go, where they will be safe and handled with great respect for their specific needs and dispositions. We hope his story serves as a stark reminder of why it’s so important to maintain a 50ft distance from the wild horses at all times and never feed them.

Topnotch is quite advanced in age. He’d not had a harem of mares in many years, and was most often alone as is typical for a stallion his age. When he was younger he did have a large harem of mares and while we have yet to identify any offspring through DNA testing, he certainly had plenty of opportunities to leave his genetic mark on the herd.

We’d like to extend our gratitude to the residents who reached out directly to us to discuss their concerns about Topnotch’s behavior. Thank you for your willingness to have constructive conversations about this; your input was valuable and very much appreciated.
... See MoreSee Less

This morning (Tuesday, November 25, 2025) we relocated wild stallion Topnotch to our farm sanctuary on the mainland due to habituation that resulted in him becoming food conditioned and aggressive. 

Over the last several years Topnotch became increasingly resistant to being moved away from perceived food sources, and also became increasingly aggressive and confrontational towards anyone who attempted to redirect him. Associating humans with food led him to begin seeking people out, and reacting dangerously whether food was present or not. 

This kind of behavior is extremely difficult to correct in a wild animal, especially when the habituation is related to food and humans. Despite repeated attempts to discourage Topnotch’s behavior, he became a serious threat to public safety. Over the last several months our herd management team, along with our board of directors and multiple concerned residents, discussed different management options. It was ultimately agreed upon that relocation would be in the best interests of the horse and the community. 

While removal is always the last resort, when wild animals and humans live in close proximity to each other there is always a risk of conflict. In these cases we sometimes have to make very difficult decisions in an effort to maintain a balance between public safety and wildlife. Despite the many difficulties associated with decisions like these, we are very fortunate to have a place for horses like Topnotch to go, where they will be safe and handled with great respect for their specific needs and dispositions. We hope his story serves as a stark reminder of why it’s so important to maintain a 50ft distance from the wild horses at all times and never feed them. 

Topnotch is quite advanced in age. He’d not had a harem of mares in many years, and was most often alone as is typical for a stallion his age. When he was younger he did have a large harem of mares and while we have yet to identify any offspring through DNA testing, he certainly had plenty of opportunities to leave his genetic mark on the herd. 

We’d like to extend our gratitude to the residents who reached out directly to us to discuss their concerns about Topnotch’s behavior. Thank you for your willingness to have constructive conversations about this; your input was valuable and very much appreciated.
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love haha wow sad angry 3532
  • Shares: 217
  • Comments: 0

0 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
4 days ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

The Banker horses are unique from any other breed in the world because of the adaptations they've developed that allow them to survive on these barrier islands. It’s not a very hospitable place for a horse, but they've learned how to weather storms, survive on very few calories, drink brackish water, and navigate the sand dunes with ease. It’s vital that we work together to protect their wild habitat so these distinctive traits can be passed down and preserved for many more generations.

Habitat preservation is a key component of our mission and a big part of our daily work. Our staff are in the field every day collecting data on how the horses are utilizing their habitat; what they're eating, how they're moving through it, their behavior, and much more. We can learn so much about what the horses need to survive - and how we can help them - with these observations and data. We can target land for conservation, identify the most frequently consumed forage, track changes in behavior and movement as it relates to encroachment or environmental changes, and in general make better informed decisions about herd management and breed conservation.

Habitat is more than just wide open land, too. It's anything the horses come in contact with during the course of their lives, and for the Corolla Bankers this means humans. Education and advocacy are critically important to preserving the horses' way of life here. From providing rental agencies with signage and refrigerator magnets, working collaboratively with the county, hosting town halls and other events, and simply interacting with residents and visitors as we go about our work on a daily basis...there are a lot of moving parts to habitat preservation!

Becoming a member or setting up a recurring monthly donation are two great ways to provide support for this important work. Get involved today: www.corollawildhorses.com/campaign/

From now through the end of the year your donation will make double the impact thanks to a generous match!
... See MoreSee Less

The Banker horses are unique from any other breed in the world because of the adaptations theyve developed that allow them to survive on these barrier islands. It’s not a very hospitable place for a horse, but theyve learned how to weather storms, survive on very few calories, drink brackish water, and navigate the sand dunes with ease. It’s vital that we work together to protect their wild habitat so these distinctive traits can be passed down and preserved for many more generations. 

Habitat preservation is a key component of our mission and a big part of our daily work. Our staff are in the field every day collecting data on how the horses are utilizing their habitat; what theyre eating, how theyre moving through it, their behavior, and much more. We can learn so much about what the horses need to survive - and how we can help them - with these observations and data. We can target land for conservation, identify the most frequently consumed forage, track changes in behavior and movement as it relates to encroachment or environmental changes, and in general make better informed decisions about herd management and breed conservation. 

Habitat is more than just wide open land, too. Its anything the horses come in contact with during the course of their lives, and for the Corolla Bankers this means humans. Education and advocacy are critically important to preserving the horses way of life here. From providing rental agencies with signage and refrigerator magnets, working collaboratively with the county, hosting town halls and other events, and simply interacting with residents and visitors as we go about our work on a daily basis...there are a lot of moving parts to habitat preservation! 

Becoming a member or setting up a recurring monthly donation are two great ways to provide support for this important work. Get involved today: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/campaign/ 

From now through the end of the year your donation will make double the impact thanks to a generous match!
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 524
  • Shares: 52
  • Comments: 5

5 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 week ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

If you’re coming into town for Thanksgiving be sure to swing by our shop and museum in Corolla to get some holiday shopping done! 🎁 We’ve got something for everyone on your list, and by shopping with us you are directly helping the horses too.

We will be open late on Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving - come see the Christmas lights in the historic village! 🎄

If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry! Our online store is open 24/7: www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/
... See MoreSee Less

If you’re coming into town for Thanksgiving be sure to swing by our shop and museum in Corolla to get some holiday shopping done! 🎁 We’ve got something for everyone on your list, and by shopping with us you are directly helping the horses too. 

We will be open late on Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving - come see the Christmas lights in the historic village! 🎄

If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry! Our online store is open 24/7: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 92
  • Shares: 8
  • Comments: 2

2 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 week ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Many iconic Banker horses have walked these beaches over the decades, but one majestic black stallion will always hold a special place in our history. His name was Star, and his tragic and untimely death in the early 1990s was the catalyst for the creation of the Corolla Wild Horse Fund as we know it today.

When the paved road was extended up into Corolla in the 1980s it introduced a danger to the horses that they’d never really faced before - speeding vehicles. Between 1985 and 1989 there were 11 horses struck and killed on Rt 12. These deaths motivated a group of concerned citizens to organize and begin working towards solutions to keep the remaining horses safe. It was their hard work (in the face of unimaginable tragedy) that laid the foundation for all of the work we’ve accomplished over the last 35 years.

Right before Star’s death, photographer Drew Wilson had taken several photographs of the horses for a newspaper article. While the photos he took that day of Star were not used in the article, after the stallion’s death Outer Banks Magazine was looking for a cover photo for their latest issue. The now iconic photo of Star walking down the beach was chosen, and later made into a poster that was used to raise awareness and support for the newly formed Corolla Wild Horse Fund.

It was the beginning of a new era for the wild Bankers of Corolla.

Today we still face so many of the same challenges that our founders did back then, but what they accomplished with so few resources and in the face of great adversity is motivation to keep up the fight to protect these horses and their habitat. Community is a key to their survival, and that’s why we’re asking you to join us today. Your support and advocacy will help ensure that the horses will remain wild and free here for many more generations.

Learn more about our year-end campaign and all the ways you can get involved: www.corollawildhorses.com/campaign/ And don't forget, if you make a donation during our year-end campaign your gift will be matched up to $50,000!

Star continues to influence our work on a daily basis. He is a symbol of our past, our present, and our future, and we strive to honor his memory in everything that we do.

*You can watch the trailer for the documentary this clip is from by clicking on the link above.
... See MoreSee Less

Play
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love sad 379
  • Shares: 34
  • Comments: 9

9 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
2 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Greetings Corolla Wild Horse Fund community,

We are quickly coming to the close of 2025. For more than 500 years, the wild herd of Banker horses have marked the turning of the calendar through their resilience. They continue to stand the test of time and serve as a vital connection to our heritage on the Outer Banks. As the beaches continue to change, the wild herd stands tall as both a reminder of what once was and a beacon of hope for what can still be. Their survival is the very story of the Outer Banks.

For centuries, the horses have stared down each and every unique challenge thrown their way, sometimes with their “butts to the wind”. Those challenges continue to evolve and accelerate. It is only with your help and assistance that we are able to continue the work of protecting and preserving this treasure of the Outer Banks in such a dynamic environment.

Today marks the opening of our 2nd Annual Year-End Fundraising Campaign. Last year, we made the determination to align our primary annual campaign to a time of the year that is marked by generosity and thanksgiving. You all responded with an extraordinary outpouring of support. I am humbled and honored to once again ask for your consideration in making a gift to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund part of your holiday tradition.

I am thrilled to share that we are once again able to offer a match thanks to a few amazing supporters. This year, our match is $50,000!

For every gift that you make, your gift will have double the impact up to $50,000.

Our Year-End Campaign will run from today through December 31. Every gift matters; every gift has impact. To that end, we have set a goal of reaching 900 individual gifts over the course of the campaign. You will be able to follow along on the campaign landing page, where you can make your gift and watch us close in on the goal. The page will be updated regularly throughout the campaign.

Donate now: www.corollawildhorses.com/campaign/

As is our campaign tradition, the next five weeks will be filled with a wide-range of content offerings from us that will keep the wild herd front and center this holiday season. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and watch your email! By all means, we encourage you to share the content and the campaign with your online community. If each of us were to make our gift and encourage one new supporter, just think of what is possible as we close 2025!

It is our wish that you will join us this holiday season through a gift that will protect the Corolla Wild Horses. I am so truly grateful for your consideration.

Warm regards,

Chris Winter
Chief Executive Office
... See MoreSee Less

Greetings Corolla Wild Horse Fund community,

We are quickly coming to the close of 2025. For more than 500 years, the wild herd of Banker horses have marked the turning of the calendar through their resilience. They continue to stand the test of time and serve as a vital connection to our heritage on the Outer Banks. As the beaches continue to change, the wild herd stands tall as both a reminder of what once was and a beacon of hope for what can still be. Their survival is the very story of the Outer Banks.

For centuries, the horses have stared down each and every unique challenge thrown their way, sometimes with their “butts to the wind”. Those challenges continue to evolve and accelerate. It is only with your help and assistance that we are able to continue the work of protecting and preserving this treasure of the Outer Banks in such a dynamic environment.

Today marks the opening of our 2nd Annual Year-End Fundraising Campaign. Last year, we made the determination to align our primary annual campaign to a time of the year that is marked by generosity and thanksgiving. You all responded with an extraordinary outpouring of support. I am humbled and honored to once again ask for your consideration in making a gift to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund part of your holiday tradition.

I am thrilled to share that we are once again able to offer a match thanks to a few amazing supporters. This year, our match is $50,000! 

For every gift that you make, your gift will have double the impact up to $50,000.

Our Year-End Campaign will run from today through December 31. Every gift matters; every gift has impact. To that end, we have set a goal of reaching 900 individual gifts over the course of the campaign. You will be able to follow along on the campaign landing page, where you can make your gift and watch us close in on the goal. The page will be updated regularly throughout the campaign.

Donate now: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/campaign/ 

As is our campaign tradition, the next five weeks will be filled with a wide-range of content offerings from us that will keep the wild herd front and center this holiday season. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and watch your email! By all means, we encourage you to share the content and the campaign with your online community. If each of us were to make our gift and encourage one new supporter, just think of what is possible as we close 2025!

It is our wish that you will join us this holiday season through a gift that will protect the Corolla Wild Horses. I am so truly grateful for your consideration.

Warm regards,

Chris Winter
Chief Executive Office
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 497
  • Shares: 69
  • Comments: 6

6 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
2 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Thanks for having us, The Northern Outer Banks! ... See MoreSee Less

Play
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 260
  • Shares: 12
  • Comments: 0

0 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
2 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Hard to believe but we are getting down to the wire for holiday shipping - place your order before December 14 to ensure it arrives before Christmas! When you shop with us, 100% of the proceeds go directly towards protecting and caring for the wild horses and the rescued horses on our farm. Check out our new hoodie colors and more: www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/ ... See MoreSee Less

Hard to believe but we are getting down to the wire for holiday shipping - place your order before December 14 to ensure it arrives before Christmas! When you shop with us, 100% of the proceeds go directly towards protecting and caring for the wild horses and the rescued horses on our farm. Check out our new hoodie colors and more: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/cwhf-gift-shop/Image attachmentImage attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 320
  • Shares: 21
  • Comments: 12

12 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
2 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

It got cold! Flurries with wind chills in the 20s at the beginning of November is a rare occurrence around here, but the horses' thick winter coats keep them plenty warm. It's supposed to be back in the 60s for the rest of the week but now we're wondering if this could be a sign of things to come for the winter... ❄️☃️🥶 ... See MoreSee Less

It got cold! Flurries with wind chills in the 20s at the beginning of November is a rare occurrence around here, but the horses thick winter coats keep them plenty warm. Its supposed to be back in the 60s for the rest of the week but now were wondering if this could be a sign of things to come for the winter... ❄️☃️🥶Image attachmentImage attachment+4Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love wow sad 1252
  • Shares: 51
  • Comments: 18

18 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
3 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Arrow is very excited to be the horse featured on Middleton Clay Project's 2025 holiday ornament! These ornaments are made with native Currituck clay and infused with Arrow's hair. Each piece is unique and supplies are limited, so get yours today: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/arrow-ornament-by-michael-middleton-ceramics/ ... See MoreSee Less

Arrow is very excited to be the horse featured on Middleton Clay Projects 2025 holiday ornament! These ornaments are made with native Currituck clay and infused with Arrows hair. Each piece is unique and supplies are limited, so get yours today: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/arrow-ornament-by-michael-middleton-ceramics/
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love haha wow 548
  • Shares: 46
  • Comments: 9

9 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
3 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Sorry we haven’t been posting much this week - lots going on! But we do have a great update to share today. You may remember us posting about a young mare who was separated from her colt during a stallion fight at the end of August. She suffered a bite wound to her shoulder and was in poor body condition. Her colt remained with the harem he was born into and was adjusting well to being abruptly weaned.

You can read the initial post here: www.facebook.com/share/p/1FSW5RmCUc/

The colt is still with his original harem and has been doing great. His “aunts” have been taking good care of him and he’s been staying in good body condition and behaving normally. We are optimistic that he is going to be just fine without needing any help from us. He’s going into winter in great shape and has a stable, protective harem keeping watch over him.

The mare’s condition was touch and go for a couple months after the incident. She stayed with her new stallion and his other mare for a couple weeks, but because she couldn’t easily keep up with them they did eventually move on without her. We monitored her daily and checked in with our veterinarian several times a week, and were ready to mobilize and capture her for treatment if necessary. In fact, one morning in the middle of September she’d been observed lying down for long periods of time and was behaving in a way that was more concerning than anything we’d seen over the previous days and weeks. We took the horse trailer up to where she was, thinking it might be time to intervene, but as we continued to watch her she stood up and stayed up, began grazing, and was very irritated with us being too close to her - that’s always a good sign! So we backed off and stayed the course.

After that weekend, she seemed to turn a corner and was more mobile and alert than she’d been for at least a month. She slowly began gaining weight, the wound on her shoulder continued to heal well, and she rejoined the other horses and has been moving around like normal. Today she is looking so much better - the wound has healed, she has gained a significant amount of weight, and continues to improve every day.

This mare and her colt are great examples of how resilient and strong the Banker horses are. They are a reminder that life in the wild is not always easy for them or comfortable for us to watch, but it is our responsibility to give them the opportunity to live naturally as they have for so many generations. Survival of the fittest is a very important part of a healthy, well-balanced population and is the reason why these horses have been thriving here for centuries. They are quite adept at taking care of themselves when given the chance. Finding a balance between letting nature take its course and conserving a very threatened, very endangered herd can be complicated and difficult. However, it’s imperative that we give every one of these horses the opportunity to live and die wild and free - their future depends on it.

We hope that this story also illustrates just how fragile life can be for them. Even in a perfect world with no human encroachment, there is no guarantee that every wild horse is going to survive into old age. This is why it’s so important that we do not make things even harder for them by being irresponsible about the things we can control like driving safely, not feeding or approaching the horses, and cleaning up after ourselves.

A huge thank-you goes out to the residents and visitors who helped us keep an eye on this mare over the last several months. Your calls and photos were instrumental in helping us keep track of any changes to her condition, and we especially appreciate the residents who were so fiercely protective of her space and safety when she was not moving around very much. It takes a village!
... See MoreSee Less

Sorry we haven’t been posting much this week - lots going on! But we do have a great update to share today. You may remember us posting about a young mare who was separated from her colt during a stallion fight at the end of August. She suffered a bite wound to her shoulder and was in poor body condition. Her colt remained with the harem he was born into and was adjusting well to being abruptly weaned. 

You can read the initial post here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FSW5RmCUc/  

The colt is still with his original harem and has been doing great. His “aunts” have been taking good care of him and he’s been staying in good body condition and behaving normally. We are optimistic that he is going to be just fine without needing any help from us. He’s going into winter in great shape and has a stable, protective harem keeping watch over him. 

The mare’s condition was touch and go for a couple months after the incident. She stayed with her new stallion and his other mare for a couple weeks, but because she couldn’t easily keep up with them they did eventually move on without her. We monitored her daily and checked in with our veterinarian several times a week, and were ready to mobilize and capture her for treatment if necessary. In fact, one morning in the middle of September she’d been observed lying down for long periods of time and was behaving in a way that was more concerning than anything we’d seen over the previous days and weeks. We took the horse trailer up to where she was, thinking it might be time to intervene, but as we continued to watch her she stood up and stayed up, began grazing, and was very irritated with us being too close to her - that’s always a good sign! So we backed off and stayed the course. 

After that weekend, she seemed to turn a corner and was more mobile and alert than she’d been for at least a month. She slowly began gaining weight, the wound on her shoulder continued to heal well, and she rejoined the other horses and has been moving around like normal. Today she is looking so much better - the wound has healed, she has gained a significant amount of weight, and continues to improve every day. 

This mare and her colt are great examples of how resilient and strong the Banker horses are. They are a reminder that life in the wild is not always easy for them or comfortable for us to watch, but it is our responsibility to give them the opportunity to live naturally as they have for so many generations. Survival of the fittest is a very important part of a healthy, well-balanced population and is the reason why these horses have been thriving here for centuries. They are quite adept at taking care of themselves when given the chance. Finding a balance between letting nature take its course and conserving a very threatened, very endangered herd can be complicated and difficult. However, it’s imperative that we give every one of these horses the opportunity to live and die wild and free - their future depends on it. 

We hope that this story also illustrates just how fragile life can be for them. Even in a perfect world with no human encroachment, there is no guarantee that every wild horse is going to survive into old age. This is why it’s so important that we do not make things even harder for them by being irresponsible about the things we can control like driving safely, not feeding or approaching the horses, and cleaning up after ourselves. 

A huge thank-you goes out to the residents and visitors who helped us keep an eye on this mare over the last several months. Your calls and photos were instrumental in helping us keep track of any changes to her condition, and we especially appreciate the residents who were so fiercely protective of her space and safety when she was not moving around very much. It takes a village!Image attachmentImage attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love wow sad angry 5156
  • Shares: 222
  • Comments: 134

134 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
3 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

We are very excited to announce that our online holiday raffle kicks off today. This year we are raffling off a beautiful, one-of-a-kind pot Middleton Clay Project has made, infused with hair from four very special Corolla Banker mares.

Tickets: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/2025raffle/

The four mares featured on this pot were part of the “Renegade Six” harem, who were known for repeatedly circumventing the fence into Virginia’s False Cape State Park. Due to the marshy terrain and the sound water being navigable, we were unable to extend the fence out any further. After many failed attempts at permanently relocating the horses back to NC, federal officials asked that we safely move them to the farm in spring 2018.

Since then, three of the horses have been adopted out to loving homes—their stallion Lucky Duck, his son Mateo, and one of the mares, Ocean Pearl. The remaining three mares, Virginia Dare, Bonita, and Kitty Hawk, will remain with us at the farm, well looked after for the rest of their lives.

Each raffle ticket is $7 and can be purchased via our website. Your order number will be entered into the raffle multiple times, equaling the quantity of your purchased ticket(s). Tickets can be purchased until 5 pm December 10th. The winner will be contacted and then announced on CWHF social media channels. The pot will be shipped to the winner.

Get your tickets now: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/2025raffle/
... See MoreSee Less

We are very excited to announce that our online holiday raffle kicks off today. This year we are raffling off a beautiful, one-of-a-kind pot Middleton Clay Project has made, infused with hair from four very special Corolla Banker mares. 

Tickets: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/2025raffle/ 

The four mares featured on this pot were part of the “Renegade Six” harem, who were known for repeatedly circumventing the fence into Virginia’s False Cape State Park. Due to the marshy terrain and the sound water being navigable, we were unable to extend the fence out any further. After many failed attempts at permanently relocating the horses back to NC, federal officials asked that we safely move them to the farm in spring 2018. 

Since then, three of the horses have been adopted out to loving homes—their stallion Lucky Duck, his son Mateo, and one of the mares, Ocean Pearl. The remaining three mares, Virginia Dare, Bonita, and Kitty Hawk, will remain with us at the farm, well looked after for the rest of their lives.

Each raffle ticket is $7 and can be purchased via our website. Your order number will be entered into the raffle multiple times, equaling the quantity of your purchased ticket(s). Tickets can be purchased until 5 pm December 10th. The winner will be contacted and then announced on CWHF social media channels. The pot will be shipped to the winner.

Get your tickets now: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/2025raffle/Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love haha wow 206
  • Shares: 38
  • Comments: 8

8 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
4 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Happy Halloween! 🎃

Come see Riptide, Louie, and the rest of the rescued horses at our fall open house in Grandy tomorrow. The weather is looking fabulous! Meet the formerly wild Banker horses in our care, chat with our staff, and do some shopping in our gift store. All proceeds benefit the horses!

We will also be screening the documentary The Secret of Corolla, and Middleton Clay Project will be here doing a live demonstration and raffle.

More information: Fall Open House at the Farm
... See MoreSee Less

Happy Halloween! 🎃 

Come see Riptide, Louie, and the rest of the rescued horses at our fall open house in Grandy tomorrow. The weather is looking fabulous! Meet the formerly wild Banker horses in our care, chat with our staff, and do some shopping in our gift store. All proceeds benefit the horses! 

We will also be screening the documentary The Secret of Corolla, and Middleton Clay Project will be here doing a live demonstration and raffle.

More information: https://www.facebook.com/share/14MmszQiAxi/?mibextid=wwXIfr
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 310
  • Shares: 18
  • Comments: 3

3 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
4 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

In March 2020 Squirt was removed from the wild and relocated to our farm due to a condition called degenerative suspensory ligament disorder (DSLD). DSLD causes the ligaments in the legs to break down and is ultimately fatal. Not only was Squirt beginning to show signs of discomfort with a noticeable decrease in his mobility, but because researchers believe the condition may be genetic we also didn’t want to risk him passing it down to any offspring. There is no cure for DSLD, but it can be managed for a time with corrective hoof trimming, proper nutrition, and supportive therapy.

Once at the farm we were able to keep Squirt comfortable and sound, and he settled into his new life well. He was friendly and very trustworthy with other horses, and was the first pasture mate both Riptide and Brio had once they were well enough to go out into one of the bigger pastures. Squirt was instrumental in helping to raise them. He lived a very normal life on the farm - he ran around and played with his friends, enjoyed being groomed, did some in-hand trail obstacle work with our 4H members (he was great with human kids too!), painted, and just generally brightened our days with his cuteness and his quirky personality.

We can count on less than one hand the number of times over the last five years that Squirt showed any signs of the DSLD causing him discomfort.

However, towards the end of the summer Squirt began showing signs of pain and lameness, was laying down more often and for longer periods of time, and was having difficulty standing back up. It had also become difficult for him to support himself when getting his hooves trimmed. He was started on pain medication and an anti-inflammatory which initially helped, but after several weeks he began to show signs of discomfort again even on the highest dosage.

We knew from the moment we brought Squirt to the farm five years ago that this was an inevitability. And while that doesn’t make it any easier, in our line of work you do come to cherish the rare times when you can make the decision to let a horse go with peace and dignity on a good day when it isn't an emergency. This was the point we’d arrived at with Squirt, and rather than waiting for his pain to increase or for him to go down and be unable to stand back up, we made the decision to euthanize him. Squirt passed away at the end of a beautiful, sunny day, surrounded by his horse and human family. Everyone had a chance to say their goodbyes, and he was laid to rest in a quiet, shady spot on the farm.

We sure miss the little guy; there is a Squirt-sized hole in our hearts now, but we are grateful that we were able to provide him with the care he needed in his last years and help him pass when the time was right.

Run free, Squirt.
... See MoreSee Less

In March 2020 Squirt was removed from the wild and relocated to our farm due to a condition called degenerative suspensory ligament disorder (DSLD). DSLD causes the ligaments in the legs to break down and is ultimately fatal. Not only was Squirt beginning to show signs of discomfort with a noticeable decrease in his mobility, but because researchers believe the condition may be genetic we also didn’t want to risk him passing it down to any offspring. There is no cure for DSLD, but it can be managed for a time with corrective hoof trimming, proper nutrition, and supportive therapy. 

Once at the farm we were able to keep Squirt comfortable and sound, and he settled into his new life well. He was friendly and very trustworthy with other horses, and was the first pasture mate both Riptide and Brio had once they were well enough to go out into one of the bigger pastures. Squirt was instrumental in helping to raise them. He lived a very normal life on the farm - he ran around and played with his friends, enjoyed being groomed, did some in-hand trail obstacle work with our 4H members (he was great with human kids too!), painted, and just generally brightened our days with his cuteness and his quirky personality. 

We can count on less than one hand the number of times over the last five years that Squirt showed any signs of the DSLD causing him discomfort. 

However, towards the end of the summer Squirt began showing signs of pain and lameness, was laying down more often and for longer periods of time, and was having difficulty standing back up. It had also become difficult for him to support himself when getting his hooves trimmed. He was started on pain medication and an anti-inflammatory which initially helped, but after several weeks he began to show signs of discomfort again even on the highest dosage. 

We knew from the moment we brought Squirt to the farm five years ago that this was an inevitability. And while that doesn’t make it any easier, in our line of work you do come to cherish the rare times when you can make the decision to let a horse go with peace and dignity on a good day when it isnt an emergency. This was the point we’d arrived at with Squirt, and rather than waiting for his pain to increase or for him to go down and be unable to stand back up, we made the decision to euthanize him. Squirt passed away at the end of a beautiful, sunny day, surrounded by his horse and human family. Everyone had a chance to say their goodbyes, and he was laid to rest in a quiet, shady spot on the farm. 

We sure miss the little guy; there is a Squirt-sized hole in our hearts now, but we are grateful that we were able to provide him with the care he needed in his last years and help him pass when the time was right. 

Run free, Squirt.Image attachmentImage attachment+4Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love haha wow sad angry 8712
  • Shares: 336
  • Comments: 373

373 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
4 weeks ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

The holidays are right around the corner and we have some great new merchandise available! Get a jump start on your shopping and support our mission too. 100% of the proceeds from our gift shop go directly to the care and management of the horses.

Shop online now: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/

You can also visit our store and museum in Corolla Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm, or come see us at the farm open house in Grandy on Saturday. More information on our website 👆🏻
... See MoreSee Less

The holidays are right around the corner and we have some great new merchandise available! Get a jump start on your shopping and support our mission too. 100% of the proceeds from our gift shop go directly to the care and management of the horses. 

Shop online now: https://www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/ 

You can also visit our store and museum in Corolla Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm, or come see us at the farm open house in Grandy on Saturday. More information on our website 👆🏻Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 180
  • Shares: 17
  • Comments: 2

2 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 month ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Don’t forget, our rescheduled fall open house at the farm is this Saturday, November 1 from 10am-2pm. The weather is looking fantastic for it! 🍂 ... See MoreSee Less

This content isn't available right now

When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 66
  • Shares: 0
  • Comments: 5

5 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 month ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

We've got another nor'easter blowing in tonight, and one of the most common questions we get when there's bad weather is "what do the horses do?"

These photos from today show one of the ways they handle the rain and wind - by going into the maritime forests and taking cover under the live oak trees. Live oaks are native evergreen trees that provide dense cover all year long, and have a deep, wide root system that makes them very resistant to damage from strong winds. Not only do these trees provide a safe, natural shelter, but they're a food source too - acorns are a large part of the horses' diet this time of year.

Just like the oak trees, the wild horses are well adapted to handle the harsh weather here on the Outer Banks - they've been doing it successfully for hundreds of years!☔️🐴
... See MoreSee Less

Weve got another noreaster blowing in tonight, and one of the most common questions we get when theres bad weather is what do the horses do?

These photos from today show one of the ways they handle the rain and wind - by going into the maritime forests and taking cover under the live oak trees. Live oaks are native evergreen trees that provide dense cover all year long, and have a deep, wide root system that makes them very resistant to damage from strong winds. Not only do these trees provide a safe, natural shelter, but theyre a food source too - acorns are a large part of the horses diet this time of year.

Just like the oak trees, the wild horses are well adapted to handle the harsh weather here on the Outer Banks - theyve been doing it successfully for hundreds of years!☔️🐴Image attachmentImage attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love haha wow sad 3022
  • Shares: 198
  • Comments: 41

41 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 month ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Head over to Roanoke Island this weekend for some Halloween fun and support local charities - including CWHF! - at the same time. 🎃🦇🕸👻 Thank you Visit The Outer Banks and Outer Banks Community Foundation for sponsoring this event!There are only FOUR NIGHTS LEFT for you to help us put the “FUN” in “FUNDRAISING” here on Halloween Island!

“How does Halloween Island benefit our community?” The answer is simple: Thanks to a generous grant by The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, EVERY PENNY from the sales of Halloween Island t-shirts ($30), passports ($5), and souvenir cups ($3) is deposited into THE HALLOWEEN ISLAND FUND for distribution to local charities through our partnership with the Outer Banks Community Foundation. The sum of all donations will be distributed throughout many Dare County charities, including (but not limited to):

🐕 Outer Banks SPCA
🍲 Hatteras Island Meals
🏖️ Friends of Jockey's Ridge
📚 Dare Education Foundation
🪾 Outer Banks Forever
🐢 N.E.S.T. (Network for Endangered Sea Turtles)
🍛 Beach Food Pantry
👗 Outer Banks Hotline, Inc.
🐴 Corolla Wild Horse Fund
🛌 OBX Room In The Inn
👕 Dare Challenge Thrift Store
👦 Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County
♿️ Special Olympics Dare County
🪢 Outer Banks Relief Foundation, Inc.
🏄‍♂️ Surfing for Autism

Join us on Roanoke Island every Thursday through Saturday throughout the month of October for a creepy crawl across 13 Halloween Bars, 13 Eerie Inns, 13 Spooky Shops, and 13 Seasonal Events & Experiences, where you’ll have a ton of seasonal fun while helping many local charities along the way!
... See MoreSee Less

Head over to Roanoke Island this weekend for some Halloween fun and support local charities - including CWHF! - at the same time.  🎃🦇🕸👻 Thank you Visit The Outer Banks and Outer Banks Community Foundation for sponsoring this event!
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love 84
  • Shares: 13
  • Comments: 1

1 CommentsComment on Facebook

Corolla Wild Horse Fund
1 month ago
Corolla Wild Horse Fund

Missing the beach? Limited 8x8 canvases and 8x10 matted prints of the wild herd by Kris’ Corolla Creations are now available in our online gift shop to ship straight to you from Corolla! 🐴

www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/product-category/photography-and-canvas/
... See MoreSee Less

Missing the beach? Limited 8x8 canvases and 8x10 matted prints of the wild herd by Kris’ Corolla Creations are now available in our online gift shop to ship straight to you from Corolla! 🐴

https://www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/product-category/photography-and-canvas/Image attachment
View on Facebook
· Share
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
View Comments
  • likes love wow 142
  • Shares: 7
  • Comments: 3

3 CommentsComment on Facebook

Load more

Corolla Wild Horse Fund

1130E Corolla Village Road
Corolla, NC 27927
(252) 453-8002

MUSEUM & GIFT SHOP

OPEN:
Monday – Friday
9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

PAGES

  • Home
  • Support the Horses
  • Learn
  • News
  • Events
  • Community Cares
  • Community Toolkit
  • Job Opportunities
  • Shop
  • Contact

CONNECT WITH US

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

Get the latest updates on the Banker horses and our work to protect and preserve them

Subscribe

MEMBERS OF

 
© Copyright - Corolla Wild Horse Fund - Website Design & Marketing by GCP
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
Scroll to top Scroll to top Scroll to top

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

OK

Cookie and Privacy Settings



How we use cookies

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

Essential Website Cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

Other external services

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

Privacy Policy

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

Privacy Policy
Accept settingsHide notification only
Corolla Wild Horse Fund