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1 day ago

The season has started! Our two requests for this weekend and the rest of the summer:

1. Stay 50ft away from the horses at all times. If you’re 50ft away that means you aren’t feeding them or petting them or in danger of being kicked by an irritated mare, and everything is great! It’s really easy to do and you’ll have just as much fun, we promise. If you see someone breaking the law or engaging in dangerous behavior, please call 252-453-3633.

2. Learn about driving on the beach BEFORE you hit the sand: currituckcountync.gov/beach-parking/ Air. Down. Your. Tires. Have a Jeep? Cool. You still have to air down. A lifted F250 Super Duty? Neat. You also need to air down. An AWD Kia Sorento? Tell the tow truck driver we said hi. When you don’t air down you damage the beach and make it terribly difficult to drive on. It’s also really rough on vehicles (and backs 😫). You can stop at the lighthouse beach access to air down, and then swing into Whalehead and fill back up at the free pumps once you’re back on the pavement.

Thanks, and we hope everyone has a fun - and SAFE! - Memorial Day weekend! 🇺🇸🐎🏖 ... See MoreSee Less

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Vehicles should not be allowed on the beach!!! Many vehicles leak stuff due to lack of maintenance and stink...People driving hazards can hit wild horses and people beach goers?!

😂 “tell the tow truck driver we said hello”. Have fun y’all, and don’t get stuck. Getting unstuck is expensive!

Guys enough with the what you think should be done..this post is about abiding by the rules for the northern OBX as far as beach and wild horses... Abide by the rules and don't approach the wild horses nor feed them stay away from them and enjoy your weekend

It's nice that y'all provide free tire inflation for when folks get back on the pavement.

Fingers crossed the humans listen and respect these requests!!

Please follow these requests and enjoy a safe summer for you and the precious horses we all enjoy and care about so much.

Sadly this is what happens when you allow people to build homes on a sandbar that was not meant to be inhabited. Sandbars by nature are meant to roll over on themselves with each major storm. Humans aren’t allowing that to happen therefore we continue to take up real estate where these animals were first. Most locals appreciate this but northerners or tourists do not.

People, these horses are a LIVING NATIONAL TREASURE. Treat them that way.

I pray this will be a safe season for those beautiful horses 🙏🏻❤️

Please teach these rules to Assateague Island and then they wouldn't be removing horses for being wild!

These are the kind of posts where comments should be shut off completely. It is very nice of you to post rules and let people know how to safely drive on the beach. Thank you! Hope all the horses have a safe & healthy summer. 🙏

Haven't been to OB in a few years. The rental houses should have all the rules posted for the horses safety.

Best of luck with this. Doesn't seem to work for the horses on Assateague. 😔

Praying for these precious horses to be safe!

Air Down - two words that will make your visit SO much easier. I always love the minivan driver that thinks " I've got this" at low tide. Then high tide pays the tow truck driver's cell phone bill for the month 😳

What if I want to drive my 1986 FORD LTD country squire on the beach or what should I do if one of those mules comes on my property while I’m there doing work outside or cooking out and starts to approach me.

50 feet is really not far at all - plenty close enough to enjoy seeing these beautiful animals. Please, everyone follow these simple guidelines and keep you and the horses safe.

People also need to clean up after themselves. I was there a few weeks back and picked up trash that was left on the beach.

Love number two! KIA Sorento!

I hope people need a license to drive on the beach or pay a fee that goes to your organization !

I hope ya’ll aren’t whispering in a hurricane …. For the sake of the ponies.

Very good advice ty. Enjoy your time at the beach and don't waste time waiting on a tow.

Sounds like great advice to me

Thank you for the important information. And so it begins!!!

Please read and follow the rules/guidelines for your safety and the horses!

4 days ago

On April 14, three-week-old colt Charlie died suddenly. His body was taken to the state lab in Raleigh, and we received the final necropsy report last week. It was determined that Charlie died from bacterial septicemia. This happens when bacteria enters the body through the umbilicus. There were no birth defects or congenital issues, and no sign that he had been fed or had eaten anything that caused an obstruction or illness. Charlie’s parents and yearling brother are in excellent shape and have shown no signs of poor health since his death.

We thank you for your continued support of our work, and your advocacy for the horses. We will keep doing all that we can to ensure their safety and protect their habitat, and we appreciate our community’s efforts in that regard as well. Charlie’s death reminds us that these horses face so many challenges to their survival that we simply cannot control, and what a miracle it is that foals are born every year who thrive and grow into healthy adults. It’s imperative that when it comes to the things we can control, we all step up to the plate and do our part to keep these horses safe. Don’t add to their challenges by petting, feeding, or otherwise harassing them.

Rest easy, Charlie. ... See MoreSee Less

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4 days ago

Buttercup created this beautiful piece of art today, and it will be for sale at the open house tomorrow! 🎨 The rescue farm will be open to the public from 10am-2pm. Come meet the horses, our staff and volunteers, and do some shopping too. Rain or shine!

More info: fb.me/e/2x6er1vGU ... See MoreSee Less

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Buttercup this is a beautiful painting! You are so talented.

Good job, Buttercup. These paintings are so special.

I would love to see a video of Buttercup painting 🎨🐴

Did Buttercup have her nurses hat or uniform on when creating her beautiful piece of art?

Will these be posted for sale on your fb page, too, for those of us who aren't down there?

Watched a very informative horse segment on PBS's "Nature" yesterday in which, among other things, the large size of the animals' eyes and their excellent eyesight was mentioned. They are also very intuitive and trainable by gentle means.

How lovely! Well done Buttercup!

10/10 Great Job Buttercup!

WTG! BUTTERCUP. It’s a beauty!

Beautiful job Buttercup ❤️🐴❤️

I’ve been wanting to do this with my horse for years but don’t know what non-toxic paint to use. What do you use?

Evelin, here’s a horse opportunity for ya. Maybe a little closer to HR.

What a terrific idea!!!

Love this!

Did he use his tail for a brush?

Tom Hall. We need to go here.

Evan Delesdernier I love it

Linda Parsons

Amy Tanner lol

Paula Zeltner Meola

I'm trying to figure out how Buttercup created this colorful painting :)

How sweet. Good job, Buttercup!

cool ty.

Very nice Buttercup!!

So talented

5 days ago

The end of last week was hot so Brio learned what a fan is! 👀🤣 He’s been spending a couple hours a day out in one of the big fields with his uncle Squirt (Squirt’s dad Scar is Brio’s grandfather), who has been a wonderful role model for him! Brio is getting some much needed horse-to-horse interaction and exercise. He’s still too small and immature to go out with all the boys, but this is a safe middle ground. Squirt has really risen to the occasion and we are very proud of him! Every horse has a purpose. 💜

If you missed Brio’s story, the short version is he was found all alone in March. While technically old enough to survive on his own (he was 7 months old), it became clear after a couple days that he was not handling it well and his physical condition deteriorated pretty quickly. He had pneumonia, was very underweight, and was starting to atrophy badly. He’s now on a special diet that includes supplements to help with growth and muscle development, his legs have straightened up, and he has grown quite a bit. He’s still very emotionally immature and not great at knowing how to behave around other horses, but making progress every day!

You can meet Brio and the rest of the crew at the rescue farm at our Mustang Mornings, every Wednesday from 10am-2pm. Starts this week! Check out our events page for more details. ... See MoreSee Less

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🥰

Is this Squirt? And is that him in the barn also? If this is him, then he reminds me alot of a stallion that used to live on Assateague Island in MD. Squirt is gorgeous! So glad he has taken Brio under his wing.

Any sighting of his mom yet?

Love this!! So glad that he is doing well!

Good job ! He looks so much better!

Smart Brio. I stand in front of a fan when necessary too 😂

❤️Thank you for taking such good care of All!

He looks really good! Adorable!

Such a handsome and smart boy! Good job Squirt, Brio looks so good.

So glad Brio is doing well. Good job Squirt in showing Brio the ins-and-outs of farm life. Oh, by the way, I stand in front of fans when necessary too ❤🐴

I adore Brio and so glad he is doing well. So glad Squirt is there to show Brio the ropes!

Glad Brio is doing well. Can’t wait to meet him this summer! 😎

So glad he's doing well! Thank you for all you do!

Squirt is showing Brio all the important knowledge. Fans being very important!!!!! So cute. ❤️❤️

So glad he has squirt

They're all just so beautiful and special!

He's gotten so big!

Smart boy, keeps the flies away too.

He’s beautiful ❤️🐴❤️

I just LOVE him :))

Squirt is amazing with Brio

This is the cutest thing ever

Thanks for taking care of these beautiful critters! Did y'all find out what happened to Charlie?

Do you geld the boys once they’re taken out of the wild?

Maybe the fan felt good like the ocean breeze.

1 week ago

Could not have said it better ourselves! Please treat our wild horses with the respect they deserve. You are a visitor in their home - a very lucky visitor who gets to experience the beauty of these special animals and this special place. Treat them like the treasures they are and we will all have a wonderful weekend!Gonna be a hot, muggy, buggy #shacklefordsaturday.

The horses will be looking to escape the heat, humidity and bugs, just like us. Don’t be the reason they can’t get relief.

Stay at least 50’ away at all times. If the horses approach you, back away.

Horses often go out on the beach to escape the flies and catch a breeze. They also often travel the beach to get to the freshwater ponds on the island. If you see them coming down the beach, simply step out of the way and let them pass; do not impede their movements. Doing so may prevent their only opportunity at the watering hole that day before another harem arrives and runs them off.

We have lots of new foals on the island this Spring. Oh so cute, and fun to watch, but stay away. Foals may be curious and approach you so keep plenty of distance. Mama may not be as happy to see you, and stallions may be aggressively protective. Other stallions may be looking for an opportunity to grab a mare, and your interference may create the opening for that. Don’t be the reason that a mare gets stolen, gets separated from her foal, or that horses—or you—get injured in the fracas.

Keep your dogs on a leash and always take your trash, including leftover food, home with you.

**Copyrighted photo courtesy of Carolyn Salter Mason, shot with a zoom lens. All rights reserved.

**The contents of this post are the sole creative content and intellectual property of the Foundation for Shackleford Horses, Inc., and may not be reproduced or reused by the media without the prior written permission of the Foundation. ... See MoreSee Less

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Thanks, Friends. Here’s hoping we both have a quiet—and safe—weekend.

Appeal to the Ferry captains to instruct why it’s important to keep a distance. Perhaps if people understand the why, they’d do a better job of giving the horses their space. God protect your beautiful creatures.

And for Gods sake, DON’T FEED THEM !

Thank you for protecting them, our kids favorite part of vacation!

I don’t know how anybody could watch the fight video from the other day and NOT know to stay away! Beautiful but terrifying.

I would add that people need to remind themselves that they are not the only inhabitants of the beaches (more than just humans). Moreover, a person might think, “well it can’t hurt if it’s just me doing (fill in the blank)”. But it’s NOT just one person. Hundreds of thousands of people visit the Outer Banks each year. Your “single” action is multiplied by everyone else who thinks they are the only one making a poor choice. Exercise self control and consideration. We all want to enjoy the beauty of the Banker horses & the Outer Banks for years to come. Thank you to all who do the right thing.

You are visitors in their home. Be respectful👏

It can’t be stressed enough… Please stay away from these beautiful wild horses!

That is a beautiful photo 🐴❤treat them beautiful horses with respect 🐴❤

Hope and pray the horses have a safe summer!

Imagine you are lucky enough to be on a free safari in your own homeland. Would you walk up to an elephant or lion to pet them? Would you stick around to try to pet them if they walked up on you? Didn’t think so. Treat our treasures with as much respect as you would theirs.

Beautiful picture. Treat them with respect.

oh i like to get on its back i use to do that on my horse she loved to swim

This is a beautiful picture!!!

The earlier suggestion for having the ferry captains explain the safety rules on the island for the protection of the horses & people is a great one! Not everyone sees these online posts. The people who should be informed need to be.

What a treat to see this. Thank you for sharing

I know you’ve had a few incidents this spring already……here’s to an informed summer!!! 🙏❤️🐴

Keeping cool! What a beautiful photograph....

They are treasures indeed!!

This is a beautiful photo.

I agree with a post I read on the Foundation for Shackleford Horses... along with some of my own thoughts. People must follow the rules for the horses!! This is their habitat, wild and innocent. If not... the penalties and fines should be much higher, tough and enforced! People will hear, word travels fast. The money from fines should be given to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund for the care of the horses and possibly more patrol in the area. I must add, people who see rules being broken should make immediate contact with authorities. Post imply some don't. It could save a life, of either the person or the horse! A suggestion, my thoughts.

Beautiful Photo!

Lauren Alyssa so a beach with wild horses ❤

I wanted to share this to create awareness.

I love this!🥰

1 week ago

Reminder that these horses are wild and can be very unpredictable and very dangerous! When hormones take over they are not paying attention to anything else, and if you’re in their way you could get seriously injured. We’ve seen a couple close calls this week. Locals can tell you stories about their houses shaking when two stallions are fighting and slam into the side of it. Your very breakable human body does not want to be on the receiving end of that kind of power! If you are driving and the horses start running and fighting near you, the best thing to do is stop, stay in your vehicle, and wait for them to move on. They fight hard. It’s natural behavior and truly amazing to watch - from a safe place!

www.corollawildhorses.org ... See MoreSee Less

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They need to keep sharing and sharing this! People are so brave and I’ve watched them stand close. They can go from zero to sixty in a second and either get hurt or hurt someone. This is a great example. If your planning a visit to the OBX respect their space and the horses. Corolla Wild Horse Fund is there for a reason to protect them. We all need to do better and do our part. ❤️

It's hard to watch for sure, but the natural way of WILD horses. We need to keep them that way and help preserve their herds to continue to thrive, survive , and hopefully recover the population in the wild.

These stallions are NOT messing around...people need to heed your warnings...admire them from afar!!

Yep just this week saw a couple families letting little children within I’d say 10 feet of a stallion who was being very territorial over his herd(in a natural way) they could of cared less

Maybe two years ago my husband was fishing in November. Horses came near him and he went in the ocean to stay away from them! We know the rules!

I think all visitors/ renters should be required to view this before signing their rental agreement.

Hard to imagine that happening in your front yard. A truly special place to live.

There should have never been houses built there. 😔

Idk why they ever allowed homes to built in there. I wish it could have been left wild. So sad so many are wounded on things from construction eating things they shouldn’t etc. Just things that shouldn’t be allowed around horses in general esp wild ones or they should fence the area homes off to where they can’t hurt themselves or people doing what they do. Beautiful amazing to watch in right setting. Sad greed money always prevail.

We stayed in a house last fall right near the border and were lucky enough to have some horses in our yard. And were completely AMAZED by the audacity and stupidity of people approaching them and trying to get go photo ops and blatantly disregarding rules and property to get closer to them. Rules are created to protect people AND the horses, and these powerful, majestic creatures deserve respect and space.

Not sure I understand the land area there, why are they so close to houses, which could be dangerous to homeowners or horses? Seems horses could have an area fenced off from houses or not. What breed are they?

I hate when animals fight 😢

They don’t call it horsepower for nothing!!

Is that the winning horse from the Kentucky Derby? 😂 The biter and bucker! Just kidding, Y’all 💕

Yet people still want to approach them🤦🏻‍♀️

But the lead mare still tells the boys off 😄....

Nothing more beautiful than horses running, living, breeding free. The strong survive and breed strong beautiful babies. Humans need to realize we lease the land from them. Give them respect and space! Thank you ( Corolla Wild horse fund) for all your hard work. God bless!!

We see foolish people trying to get too close to the bull elks in Benezzette, PA. People think they are tame or peaceful.

They’re taking care of their own business they don’t care about the people around them. They’ve got territory to protect. This is amazing

I saw two males fighting a few years back on the beach. We stayed in our truck and watched them from a distance. It was something to see. I don’t think I’ll ever forget what we witnessed.

Amazing and powerful creatures! There is a reason they are called WILD and should be treated with respect. This is just the way some things go down and this fight I am sure isn’t even as bad as it could have gotten. Hope to see them one day for myself. Thank you Corolla Wild Horse Fund for all the work you do for them and their surroundings/well-being. I am sure it is no easy task!

That's a whole lot of horsepower

Totally agree. My mare went into heat a few weeks ago and one of my older geldings went nuts. This was a gelding…no less a stallion surrounded by a herd.

Must be interesting living out there with loose horses. Like, if mine were loose, they’d be pulling up people’s flower gardens or playing with the garden hoses. Or licking someone’s car.

Love the horses but I think the way they are building houses it's only a matter of time before they won't be there..

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1 week ago

Mustang Mornings at the farm start a week from today! Every Wednesday the rescue farm in Grandy will be open from 10am - 2pm. Come meet the horses and talk with the staff and volunteers who care for them and their wild relatives. The gift shop will be open too!

More info 👇🏻 ... See MoreSee Less

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.

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Is there any other times the farm is open or is it only for events like these?

Definitely worth it!

So worth it!

Do you need to make a reservation?

Can't wait 😊❤

Emilie Nesbitt we should go here one time we’re out there

Kathy Laskowski This summer??

Lorelei Pulliam Nancy Philpy

Jeanette Greene

2 weeks ago

Can’t know for certain, but that sure does look like a Banker pony! Roman nose, feathers on his legs, his height, the set of his tail…all characteristics of the breed. As it says in the house bill that designates the Bankers as the state horse, they “have played a significant role in the history and culture of North Carolina’s coastal area for hundreds of years.” 🐎🌊Coast Guardsman Chester Hinnis is seen on his patrol horse in July of 1943 on Bald Head Island.

After Pearl Harbor the threat of enemy vessels approaching the United States shoreline was real. In an effort to mitigate the risk of invasion and to a certain degree boost civilian morale, the Coast Guard began mounted patrols on beaches along the eastern coastline. At its height, 561 horses were employed by the Fifth Naval District which covered North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland.

The Coast Guard mounted patrol was dissolved in the summer of 1945 after the threat of invasion had diminished considerably and the horses were sold at public auction.
___________
ConDev3488
From the Conservation and Development Photograph File, State Archives; Raleigh, NC. ... See MoreSee Less

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I'm so glad they're now protected & valued.

My daddy was in the coastguards during this time and he would tell me about the horses that was used. He told me many times over that some of the horses were actually just left behind

As an horsewoman and USCG veteran I guess I was born just too late and female lmao! I would have loved that kind of duty! This is way cool!

Corolla Wild Horse Fund My husband’s father was employed with the Park Services, stationed in Ocracoke and was very instrumental in protecting and growing the herd there years ago. Have several pictures of him with the horses and a few books where he and my mother in law are mentioned for the work they did with the herd. He also rode one when he patrolled the beach.

I disagree. Neck is not thick enough and the size would indicate this is a horse of at least 16. H. Also, too long in the body. Even TB's have roman noses although the feathers would indicate a breed of some driving type.

Many of these characteristics are valued as part of American stock breed horses. Definitely a shared lineage. ❤️

I am sure the records could be traced in the USCG of where these ponies came from. Yes, they sure do look like a banker pony!!

It would be amazing if the Australian government could see the value in our brumbies the same way, instead of hiring covert shooters to kill them in the middle of the night 🤬

The story is amazing and something I did not know about. Thanks for sharing.

OMG I hope people don't think it's okay to try to ride these horses because of this picture. That's all you would need. And obviously, some would be dumb enough to try it seeing this.

The feathers on his legs remind me so much of Shadow.

This was interesting to learn.

Thank you for this amazing history!

Doesn't look like a banker to me, but is just from sight and pictures. What do I know!🧐 He or she looks too long and lean to me??

Just beautiful !!!

Trina Renee Cook-Chamberlain, I had not heard of Banker horses before.

Love the history but hope no tourists try to replicate this photo!

Prayed they will be the state horse. They deserve it.

Terri Anderson Porado

Sharon Blaine Turner+

Interesting history.

Alice Watt Frye interesting

My grandfather used to go and bring wild horses back from across the sound to Aydlett to use as farm animals and pets. Back in the 30s-40s That's where many horses came from on the mainland back then. And I think my other grandparents had one as a pet as late as the 60s

2kool

2 weeks ago

IMPORTANT - If you have the non-emergency number for the county saved in your phone or posted in your rental homes, the number is changing as of tomorrow. Please be sure to update your contacts! We will be working on getting stickers to correct signage and will update the posters in our community toolkit but it will take a while for us to get everything changed. Thanks! ... See MoreSee Less

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Thank you for sharing this information!💖

Tom O'Donnell

2 weeks ago

Our wild horses - all of them - are in crisis. Herds all over the country are struggling with increased interactions from humans that are resulting in deaths and removals from the wild. Please stop feeding wild horses. Please pick up your trash. Please just leave them alone and do the bare minimum to be a responsible human being.

Every week lately we are seeing a new report of a wild horse that’s been fed and died, or had their life in the wild taken from them because of the actions of humans. A Salt River horse died from ingesting plastic this month. An Assateague stallion was removed from the wild after being dangerously habituated by humans. A Shackleford colt was taken by visitors. We’ve had more calls about people feeding apples this spring than ever before.

If you are visiting a wildlife area it is your responsibility to know the rules and follow them. Please just do a little bit of research before your trip so that you can be sure you’re being responsible and keeping yourself and the environment safe. These special wild places aren’t going to exist for our kids and grandkids if we don’t start doing a better job of protecting them.

Our hearts go out to the Onaqui herd. It’s unfortunately a pain and a frustration we are all too familiar with. All we can hope is that these horses haven’t died in vain, and that their tragic stories may prevent future incidents.Do Not Feed the Horses. Do Not Pet the Horses. /DO NOT FEED/ them.

PLEASE SHARE THIS. This image was taken 11 May 2022 in the North Herd area.

We cannot stress them enough. Every time you feed a wild horse, you risk killing them. Horses in other parts of the country have died ingesting foods either given by or left by people.

This week, people attempted to feed and left food on the range for horses. This is never appropriate for any wild animal.

Among the food left were apples, which is the very food which ended in choke and death for @corollawildhorsefundinc wild horse, and another was injured severely enough that he had to be removed from the wild.

More signs are desperately needed on the range, but these take time to get approved and place. In the mean time, we need to be vigilant as a community.

No feeding.
No petting.
Stay back 100 feet (300 ft for new foals)
Keep Onaqui horses alive
Keep Onaqui horses wild

Onaqui Catalogue Foundation Team ... See MoreSee Less

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No one can convince me that all those wild horse tours are not stressing the horses. Way too many trips a day way too many companies allowed to do them. With the new ruling limiting permits for beach entrance it’s time to aggressively reduce the tours.

Unfortunately the people who do not respect the laws do not read these posts. They don’t think any rules apply to them. So very sad. Punishment is not strong enough when they are caught either. Thank you for all that you do for these beautiful horses

Thank you so much for sharing.

Sadly the society that we are in just don’t care. It’s all about their pleasure, what they want. People just know that they are not punished for the crazy things they do. Best thing for these horses is to be fenced off from people and if people want to pay a rich fee to live with them then so be it. No 4x4s allowed. Charge a high admission to get into these areas. Houses shouldn’t be built in these areas. Save the horses.

Sadly, the people on this site are probably not the ones that are causing all these tragedies. I hope you can get the word out more widely so these beautiful, wild horses can remain. I think the suggestion above about distributing pamphlets in rental packages is a good one. Perhaps visitors don’t realize the harm they are doing by feeding or trying to interact with the herd.

Hoping you have your free educational pamphlets in all rental homes. Gearing them to be understandable by children might help, too.

The problem is that despite all the signs posted and pamphlets distributed to rental homes, no one READS those materials. Or they think they are an exception to the rules; no one will know; there are no real consequences for the violators.

We humans are our own worst nightmare. Sadly some people feel rules don’t apply to them. Our wildlife is suffering world wide. Signs will help, but some people just don’t care.

A Shackleford colt was taken by visitors? Has this ever happened in Corolla? That’s crazy!

It really makes me wish we could go back about 30 years to when our banks were a hidden gem and not an overrun tourist destination. Back to when the herds were respected. Thank you for the ever-diligent work y’all do, Corolla Wild Horse Fund!

What part don't people get? SMDH.😡😡🤬

I do not understand why people are so stupid.

Perhaps a few highly publicized arrests with large fines for endangerment would curb some of human ignorance and stupidity!

In Texas, a coyote attacked a toddler and significantly injured them. So weird/coyotes usually keep their distance and very few attacks have happened. Turns out people in the area had been feeding and interacting with coyotes. It had no fear of humans. Three coyotes were shot and killed. Authorities issued a statement saying basically quit feeding the coyotes 😭

I feel like whatever was left of common sense before the pandemic evaporated completely. Or it's just the ever present and growing entitlement mentality that seems to be getting worse daily.

Soooooo Agree with post about too many wild horse tours - have been coming to Duck for over 30 years and no longer want to go on the off road beach - these horses Need To Be Left Alone or they will be gone - people are willfully ignorant and or arrogant- there are too many people period on that strip and too much building etc

So angry that people ignore the posted signs EVERYWHERE!

We live here in Corolla and have yet to visit the 4x4 beach to visit the horses, only because we previously had a condo in Ocean City, MD and visited Assatueque (sorry, wrong spelling) Island throughout the years. It’s tragic to see bumper to bumper traffic among their wild horses, many of which have been killed. They forage through unattended picnic food and eat whatever is available. I know the rangers make every effort to protect the wild horses, but without responsible adults, I don’t foresee a positive future for their wild horses. We need to PREVENT this from happening HERE.

Thank you so much for sharing this. We appreciate your whole team and community for their vigilance.

I've only seen Corolla & Assateauge horses. The horses on Assateauge walk right up to the vehicles. People feed them all kinds of junk food. The horses in Corolla are much better protected & I feel like most people respect them. Keep up the great work. Anyone in Corolla that is caught feeding them should get a big fine.

If you see it happening, SAY SOMETHING! Immediately. To the person. Help save a wild horse.

It's so frustrating! Humans are the worst. Fine, Charge, Jail. Perhaps stop every visitor coming onto the island and instructing them. Charge them a huge fee to come! Something must be done to protect these beautiful animals.

Why, just why cant people do the right thing? 🤦‍♀️

I am 60 years old and live in Chesapeake. I have been going to OBX for over 50 years with family owning homes there. Known the area before most houses were there especially 4 x 4. Have many pics and experiences with the horses, waking most mornings to them and deer too. It doesn't take much to admire them from where you stand and don't interfere. My favorite memory was lying on the sound side in a secluded spot all alone resting with my eyes shut. Had the feeling I was being watched. Opened my eyes and there was at least 8 horses, including a couple young and a pregnant one standing there with me. I just continued to do my thing and they did theirs. They stayed at least 30 minutes and it was awesome. No pics, just soaked it in all alone. These creatures deserve their space and respect. In return they allow you to get a sneak peak into their lives. These horses feed themselves just fine without us and all interactions do not have to be physical and up close. Humans need to do better. Unfortunately those that don't get it probably never will which will end badly for all. Yet the answer is so simple it's painful, like watching a train wreck about to happen and you can't stop it.

Up the fines for the offenders and add a lot of jail time! Maybe install a few cameras and catch the culprits.

2 weeks ago

You’ve probably seen lots of photos of the angry ocean over the last couple days, but did you know that quite the opposite is happening on the sound side? A northeasterly wind will blow all the water out of the sound, and this storm has been particularly brutal in that regard too.

The sound-to-sea fence that keeps the horses on the 4x4 extends out into the sound, but with the water blown out like this they can easily walk right around it. Our amazing volunteers have been extra busy the past couple mornings getting the escapees back to safety. If you happen to see horses on the paved roads in Corolla, please do not attempt to move them. This is incredibly dangerous for you and the horses, and scattering them makes our volunteers’ jobs even more difficult.

Hopefully the water comes back soon! If you see horses on the paved road, please call 252-232-2216 so that we can get them safely moved back to the refuge.

Photo: Zack Lobisch Art ... See MoreSee Less

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Cars, folks who try to feed or approach are the real enemy not containment!

I was there many years ago on the beach for a Barbecue (the best I’ve ever had). I heard them and felt them before I saw them and then they ran out onto the beach and it was magical. I had no idea there were wild horses out there. I’m so glad they are protected❤️

So grateful for all those who are helping. I remember coming in the 90s when the horses roamed lose and so many were killed by cars then. I can’t even imagine, with all the traffic today, how bad it would be.

Wow…thank you for protecting them!

That is truly dire. We have seen so many horses killed in the pavement before the fences. Thank you volunteers.

The herd needs a protected state park up there, but meanwhile, your group does an extraordinary job with these beautiful horses.

WOW ‼️. That is low Tide 🌊. Mother nature is so unpredictable and I hope these BEAUTIFUL HORSES will not wander far‼️❤️❤️❤️🐎🐴. Thank you for sharing 😊

Thank you to all those who help protect these beauties. Do not mind those who comment otherwise.

So glad there is the foundation and volunteers that work hard to keep these treasures safe. These banker ponies are not funded by any funds other than donations. I am happy to donate every year.

Thank you so much for all of the work that you do to protect these beautiful creatures! Y'all be safe out there in the OBX!!

Beautiful picture thank you for all your hard work to keep the horses safe.

I fell in love with these beautiful creatures after one visit. So much so that I included them into my novel and changed the entire location and setting to accomplish this.

When we first started coming down back in 93’ they were down in Corolla. I actually have a photo of one right in front of the Corolla light village sign. Even then with far less people around it wasn’t uncommon for them to be hit and killed on route 12.

This is an example of an opportunity provided by natural forces that opportunistic horses used for thousands (millions of years) to migrate between bodies of water to seek new sources of food. With their ability to swim they were able to move near and far. No human transport necessary.

Looks like all the water was blown out of Currituck Sound by the strong NE winds experienced over the past several days! The duck blind seen in the far distance would normally be surrounded by water extending from the marsh in the fore ground!

You and your volunteers do a wonderful job keeping them safe. Thank you

Wow , Was there for a week end of March , the wild horses are so beautiful, and hope they are safe. 🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️❤️

I use to think that was so strange ocean was flooding and sound was empty

It's going to be a rough summer, saw in the news that two houses got washed out into the ocean from this storm..can only imagine the debris that's going to wash up on the beach. I hope all the horses & ppl are safe out there this summer

A hugeThanks to everyone that helps to keep these beautiful horses safe. Praying that they don't wonder too far and that they're all found and returned to their own areas safely. 🙏

Would it be better for all horses to be able to run free and wild out on this old west like years and years ago. Of course but they can’t. In fact the hers out there are controlled by Bureau of Land Mgmnt. And guess what the herd gets too big they bring in shooters in helicopters to thin them out. The volunteer groups have been trying to fight that for years. So yes these herds here have pretty much free rein the problem is controlling the people who should have more sense

There's some pretty stupid comments here; clearly uneducated about these horses and the huge history behind them. Thank you for all you do, tirelessly, on a volunteer basis to secure these beauties and the hundreds of years of history associated with them.

We are slowly but surely destroying Mother Earth. I pray the animals outlive us & find peace amongst themselves

I just want to thank everyone that works to keep these beautiful creatures safe❣️ You are all wonderful ❤️

I remember they use to be in Southern Shores very long time ago

Outer Banks wild horse film wins honors at EQUUS arts fest

2 weeks ago

If you haven't seen "The Secret of Corolla" yet...what are you waiting for?? This film is generating all kinds of impressive and well-deserved accolades! It tells the story of the Banker horses and the people who have lived with them, loved them, and worked tirelessly to protect them for many generations.

You can purchase the film on DVD and BluRay: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/the-secret-of-corolla-dvd-and-bluray/ or download it: www.corollawildhorses.com/shop/the-secret-of-corolla/

Watch a sneak peek here: www.thesecretofcorolla.com/sneakpeek ... See MoreSee Less

www.pilotonline.com

Jerry Thompson wasn’t upset when his documentary film about the Outer Banks wild horses, “The Secret of Corolla,” placed second — it was behind a film by Robert Redford.

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The trailer alone brought me to tears. I don't know what it is that is so touching about these horses. Maybe it's the perseverance over all these years against numerous challenging obstacles, their sheer beauty, or the beautiful ocean as the backdrop to their survivability. I don't know. All I know is that the past, present, and future of these horses resonates so deeply. I'm off to watch the full version with my grandchildren along with a box of tissue. Thank you for the opportunity to purchase this and for a beautiful reminder of how we're all interconnected and can be brought together through the respect and admiration of the horses and the work you all do on their behalf. ♥️

My apologies for posting this here, but I couldn’t leave a random comment elsewhere. My question is, why doesn’t NC offer a license plate with a horse on it to represent these AWESOME wild horses?!? I’d buy one in a skinny minute! We have license plates representing other wild life and outdoor activities. Why not a wild horse?!? Very few states in our country even have those! I wonder if/how we could make this happen?? Thanks for all you do keeping these horses as safe as you can. I donate to your fund via my Amazon account and hope other folks do that, too! ❤️

Wonderful- it may also help people respect them more too

It was wonderful🐴🐴🐴❤️🐴🐴🐴. I think everyone coming for a first time visit should watch the fantastic film. We did and made the trip ever more special. ❤️🐴❤️🐴❤️🐴❤️

The Christmas present I'll be giving my friends for Christmas 2022 because I love these horses, Meg Puckett, and all the others who work to make sure they are taken care of. ❤

Have a tissue or two on hand when you watch it!! ❤️❤️

Oh how wonderful! I can't wait to watch this film on the magnificent wild horses of Corolla 🤗

So glad you posted this! Done!

Thank you for all the care and love and work you provide for these horses!

Very interesting…… get some kleenex

DeAnna Davis you need to go to Corolla and see the wild horses sometime when in NC 🙂 🙂

Where can it be watched

Is it available on streaming?

Are there subtitles ?

So there is a fence the width of the island separating Corolla from carova?

Awesome.

Shalene Neuberger Niki Moon Carol Tolle Lewin Kristen York

Ann Stuart Kathleen Kelley

Crissie Barnes

Kara DeStephanis

Jimmy Pitts

Laura

Leslie Caryn Maynor

Allison Bennett

Erika Spring

3 weeks ago

We are on day 3 of one gnarly nor’easter! 🌀💨🌧 Us humans are exhausted and beyond ready for it to blow on outta here, but the horses don’t really care. Huge thanks to Martha for venturing out at low tide this morning to take a look around! She found Rocky, Betsy, and the rest of their harem and as you can see they are hunkered down in the woods. The beach is a mess - lots of debris everywhere, steep escarpments, many of the ramps have sand blown over them, and the ocean is at the dune line. Not a great week to drive on the 4x4 if you don’t have to! ... See MoreSee Less

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The horses are way better off this week ! Humans are so much worse than wind 🙂

Stay safe. Lots of homes in Rodanthe are floating out to sea and all the wood and garbage is now in the ocean creating more danger to people and wildlife. Keep your 👀 open. That’s the direction the debris is taking I believe.

Thank you for checking on these beautiful horses 🐎 ❤️ ♥️

I'm so glad the horses know to hunker down & you humans know how to care for them thru most anything. Thankyou for your dedication.

Looking forward to my arrival this Sunday! I have been on the 4x4 when a hurricane skirted the coast and know it can get rough. Thank goodness the horses are so resilient and know when and where to hunker down safely. Hoping for blue skies, sunshine, and safe debris cleanup!

Horses are smarter than tourists

We were headed your way later this week, but have decided to wait until next week. Stay safe everyone! So glad the horses have the innate ability to handle the situation.

Headed that way Saturday. 🤞 Hoping it's much better.

Those horses are smart to find a safe place!

We were there this time last year and , it was a little cool sometimes and we only had 1 day of rain for a while- so blessed it worked out as it was our first time staying in the 4x4 area- LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!

I love how you care for these horses. I’m trying to help the mustangs from the cruel way they rounded up

Glad that they are safe! They are tougher than we are! 💕

We have been to beach many times I am from Iowa and we just had those winds and 1in hail on Mothers Day. Glad horses are ok.

Mother Nature RULES!

Maybe this is Mother Nature’s way to say “ Stay Away “! 😉

The horses are so beautiful. I’m glad they are doing ok

So Thankful they’re safe! ❤️🐴❤️

Thank you for caring and sharing

Animals are so smart when it comes to weather. ❤️🐴

Yes, crazy week to be here. Thanks for all you do for the horses.

Wow… all be safe Two years ago we were there for 2 weeks in May & it rained 11 out of 14.. be careful

Glad they are safe! The winds on the coast are wicked.

Thanks for all your updates, I love our wild horses and miss seeing them😊❤️

I love seeing all the pics of these beautiful animals! I’m just in awe of them & their story!!

Glad they are all staying safe and under cover. Hope you alll are too!

3 weeks ago

Nor’easter hair, don’t care! 💨 (And some mud just to accessorize.) ... See MoreSee Less

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…and you are still the handsomest mule on the east coast!

Oh, Raymond!!! You are the most handsome of them all!!! We love and miss you on the beach, but are SO happy you are on the Farm!!!❤

He says, to you its mud, to me it is the best back scratcher I'll feel in a while. (See they will have to brush all this mud off of me which will also remove all the winter fur that's loose and itching to fall off!))😏

Is that my precious Raymond? Your canvas picture is on my wall to remind me of you everyday💖

Cherish the hair. And the mud.

Hairspray not needed on the OBX. Stand on the deck to blow dry! Works great!

I'm missing me some Raymond. I gotta come to the farm soon.

You're a silly, handsome man, Raymond!! Let the wind blow through your gorgeous locks!! 😂

Oh Raymond! You are looking very handsome with your hair styled.

So adorable!❤️

I just found a picture of him today one of the last ones I took on beach

I love you Raymond!💖

So adorable!❤️

You know he worked very hard to get that mud just exactly right👌

Such a handsome mule!!

Put him on the cover of a romance novel ❤️

It's the very handsome tousled look! 💖

Just handsome...be still my heart

Love that face!!

Still beautiful!

Me too Raymond!!

Raymond is just too cute!!!

Oh Raymond! Love the hair 😊🥰

Too cute

Love love love Raymond! 💕

3 weeks ago

Well, while we’re at it…meet Cádiz! This colt was born the last week of March so he is not brand new but his parents kept him in the marsh for the first few weeks of his life. The deer flies drove them out onto the beach today! Cádiz’s family includes mom Ruby, dad Flint, and brother Sebastian. ... See MoreSee Less

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So Beautiful….tourists please keep them safe!

Cadiz is a beautiful city in southern Spain. Spectacular sidewalks!

So breathtaking! These horses are treasures ❤️

I pray they are left alone to grow . So beautiful

That is an awesome Spanish sounding name. I’ve always loved how Corolla wild horse fund has named horses Spanish names. I adopted one of the mares years ago. Her name was Corizon.

Beautiful colors in his family . Especially Ruby. Wow!

Quite a handsome young colt.

Welcome to the beautiful world of the banker ponies Cadiz! May you have a long and free life with your family on the wonderful beaches. I hope to see you soon. Run wild you precious little colt.

Yayyyy! How many does this make for the year so far, 5?? 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

Beautiful I love seeing these free horses.

Ruby Jeep and Sebastian Toris. Mom Ruby and brother Sebastian. ❤️

His marking looks like the tree of life

Just beautiful. So wonderful to see free / wild horses.

What happened to the little colt that went to live on the farm after getting sick and weak?

Going back to see the horses soon It's so beautiful there

So adorable live seeing these updates & pics of new babies..I'm always checking, starting in March, to see the when the new ones are born..also all the other updates too 😀

Cadiz, welcome! May you be safe, loved and most of all....untouched by meddling, selfish humans!

Welcome to the world Cadiz- travel safely!

Ruby's dapples are gorgeous!

Perfect name for this beautiful colt!! 🐴❤

Gorgeous. Sad we missed him today.

Yay ill show samara

Hope gets to meet Cyclone.

Beautiful. Looks like the best time for a visit maybe early May?????

Peace and all good CWHF

3 weeks ago

Our newest foal has made her first public appearance! She was born on Tuesday, and her name is Cricket. This brings the 2022 count to six so far, with five surviving.

(We are still waiting for one more test result from Charlie’s necropsy and then we will hopefully have some answers to share.)

Please remember to give the horses plenty of space! Crowding new mothers can cause stress that may lead to all sorts of complications, including abandoning foals. They need time to bond, rest, recover, and grow. Please stay 50ft (or more!) away at all times. ... See MoreSee Less

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I just printed out all the materials from your community tool kit and will laminate them and post them in my home. Already have your magnets on my refrigerators. Will add a herd watcher sign in my yard as well. TY!

How wonderful! Praying that the remaining five continue to thrive and run wild and free!❤️

I may have missed it, but I don’t recall any updates on Gus becoming the sire to any foals yet. Are there any critical signs of inbreeding yet among the herd? Are there any immediate plans to bring in another new stallion or mare from a different line? I had such high hopes for Gus!

She is beautiful!! We were there this past weekend and got to see one of the new babies on the beach. Has been a lifelong dream to see them

Ohmygosh, this is just what I needed tonight!! How precious - what a cutie patootie little beauty!!!!!!

So cute. And, people, for the horses health and safety, stay AT LEAST 50’ from them…..and DO NoT FEED them!!!!

She will be a beauty like her mother.

She is precious and so stinkin cute! I wonder if she’ll stay dark like mom…

That’s great I really like the name 👍👍

She's so pretty love the little white socks on her hind legs..that makes what 2 fillies??..

Cricket is absolutely adorable, what a beauty! Kicking those little feet high...run wild and free little girl!

Love this! I pray people stay away and let this important young fully thrive!

Love seeing the new babies!!

So adorable!❤️ Live long and free little bit.

Beautiful. Thanks for the update. Also update on necropsy.

Precious 💕Thankyou to share love watching those horse and baby

Congratulations 🎊🎈🎉 Please keep us updated on the outcome of the other foal..

So thus far , we have Cedar , Cricket , Cyclone , and Charlie ( who tragically passed ) .. are the other two yet named ?

I may have missed this info previously, but is there a yearly limit on foals - as in use of birth control - or is the herd management area able to support this many foals + per year with no issues? Genuinely curious since other herds I follow use managements such as PZP. Love all the info you give and love seeing photos of all the horses. Thanks for all you do!!

Oh she’s such a cutie! I gotta plan a new birthday trip out there!

She is absolutely precious and I love her name!!!

Are your wild horses SAFE! Dare I say it... It doesn't sound as if they are going to swoop down in a metal monster (helicopter) as you guys are so involved with the new foal numbers.. etc. I am hoping your horses can expect to live out their lives, wild and free!

Connie Lynn, Carol Leser, She'll be less than 2 weeks old when we get there. Hopefully they will make an appearance ❤

She’s beautiful! Her coat looks like velvet

Beautiful babies! Can’t wait to maybe get a glimpse of them on our summer visit!

4 weeks ago

Over the last couple days we have gotten several calls about people feeding horses apples. Yes, law enforcement has been involved. But a citation written after the fact isn't going to help the horse after it's already been fed. We shouldn't be getting these calls in the first place - please do not be selfish and short-sighted. Your actions have long-lasting consequences that our organization, our community, and the herd have to deal with after you go home. Losing one horse out of a population of only 100 is a devastating blow, the effects of which last for generations.

We are not asking you to sacrifice anything - just leave the horses alone! Watch them from a distance and do not get close or interact with them. There are signs everywhere. It is very, very hard to believe that anyone who spends any time on the 4x4 doesn't know by now that feeding the horses is illegal and dangerous. If you want these horses to be here next year when you vacation, and in five years, a decade from now...it is up to you to follow the rules and help keep them safe. The horses face so many challenges to their survival that we can't control. Everyone who visits needs to start doing a better job of not putting them into unnecessarily dangerous situations.

We realize that we are largely preaching to the choir by posting here, but maybe if the message is shared widely enough it will hit the people who really need to see it. It's not even Memorial Day yet, and we are already extremely concerned for the rest of the summer. If you are on the 4x4 and you witness someone feeding, petting, or putting themselves or the horses in danger, please call 252-232-2216 so that a deputy can be dispatched to the location. They will also let us know so that we can keep an eye on any horses that may have been fed.

There are lots of resources available in our Community Toolkit: www.corollawildhorses.com/community-wild-horse-toolkit/ Homeowners, please consider placing information in your houses so that your renters know the rules and why they are important.

Hopefully 2022 is the first year in a few that we do not have to remove or euthanize a choking horse, but based on the behavior we've seen so far this spring, it's not looking promising. Please don't be the reason a horse dies or has to be taken out of the wild. Just follow the rules, watch the horses in their natural environment without interfering with them, and treat this place the same way you would treat your own home. It's not asking a lot of you, but it means a LOT to the horses.

(Pictured is Danny, who was fed an apple and subsequently choked and died in 2020. He was only a year old.) ... See MoreSee Less

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Can the Corolla Wild Horse Fund work with the local government and property management companies to include acknowledgment of the wild horse rules in the rental contracts, to include what the penalties and fines are? It seems like this information needs to be pushed harder.

The penalties need to be more severe. Either monetarily or with mandatory jail time.

If the last 2 years have proven anything at all about modern American society, it’s that people just don’t want to follow rules that they personally ‘disagree’ with. 🙄🤦‍♀️🙄🤦‍♀️🙄

They’ll care when they’re responsible for the vet bills if one of these horses gets sick! I don’t understand how it is so hard to just admire them from afar and respect the area they’re in. It’s heartbreaking to see these posts year after year. Thank you for all that you do 💙

So frustrating. Thank you for continuing to raise awareness and involving law enforcement.

Might be helpful if the warning sign about feeding the horses that is on 158 in Currituck could be facing the other way. People see it as they travel away which seems too late. Might be helpful if it could be viewed on the way to the beach instead.

Maybe when renting a house or a condo, have them sign a form explaining the policy of the things you can and can't do in regards to the horses and other wildlife. This way there's no doubt that they know! Get with law enforcement and even put the amount of the fine and up to jail time. Some people don't have common sense and you've got to lay it out for them! I think this 1 piece of paper can save a few 😪

I'm sorry but if I see someone feeding these horse I will not wait for authorities to show up. I will call and in the meantime while waiting for them I am going to approach and say something to the individuals myself. I am from a horse loving family that has had horses as long as I can remember and if I can save even one horse it will be worth it to me.

They should make it an animal cruelty charge. I don’t know about North Carolina but in Virginia animal cruelty is a felony. Maybe if the punishment were harsher people would stop doing. Maybe meet with your state representatives.

honestly some visitors are so dense you'd have to stand at the entrance and hit them with a stick and they would STILL say "oh I didn't know" or "it's just one bite, how much could it hurt??" amazing that people who apparently functionally illiterate and in a coma manage to find their way to the beach 😬

Law should be, if are at fault of a horse getting choked, sick, or passes. Then that person needs to pay all vet bills and then have to pay yearly to the Wild horse funds for ten years..... At the very least!!!!!

Everyone thinks they know better. They think the signs are for the "other guy."

Omg how much more info do people need to understand to let them be...grrr.

Unfortunately the only real way to end the interaction between the horses and vacationers is to close the beach in 4x4 to vacationers and day trippers. I know there are year round residents there but they know better. Sorry non resident home owners.

People who are seen disobeying the rules regarding the horses need to be put on a list and not allowed to be on the 4x4 for any reason. Abuse it, lose it.

I think maybe you should start this post with the heartbreaking info about Danny, for the ones who won't read this whole post. Thank you for your tireless advocacy and care for these beautiful horses.

People just think they can feed horses! Happens with privately owned horses! Has happened with mine ! They just do It ! I confronted people a few times . They actually walked down a private drive with carrots and apples in hand !! Explained why they should not do it ! And asked why they think they can ! Well they are so pretty !! Not a good answer! So sad , and frustrating. Thankfully it does not happen at the farm he is at now. Hopefully people will get the message !!!

We have always shared this information with our renters, in fact we have a whole section on the horses and we will continue to do so.

Seems maybe the only way to protect these precious animals is to make the 4x4 off limits to anyone other than those who reside there.

can rental agencies put it in the contracts that people understand no feeding of the wild horses or interacting with the wild horses and also all rental homes have it posted for the renters to see? It’s becoming a regular occurrence that vacationers are feeding and interacting with the horses it’s not right

There are signs even on the drive towards outer banks that clearly say to not feed the horses 🙄 and up and down the 4x4 everywhere!

People think the rules never apply to them. 🤦‍♀️😡

Sounds like their needs to be stricter consequences! We need to do better for the horses! People aren’t understanding

Like many others on this site, I’ve had it and I’m going to rant. Report those who disobey the rules. Fine them heavily AND let them spend a couple of days in jail. Work with hotels/motels/rentals to include a caveat in lease agreements that any visitor reported for abusing laws in place to protect the horses will immediately be evicted with NO REFUND OR ABATEMENT and banned from booking future vacations in that establishment. Further, names/dates/violation details will be attached to that person’s future bookings. I understand that this is harsh but people who can afford to rent in that area can most likely pay a fine with no problem. To CWHF, I know that you folks do everything you can to protect the herd. My rant is not in any way aimed toward you. Maybe it's time for the general public to step up and try to work with management companies, etc. to help prevent this $%#@ (sorry for the word that I'm thinking). Sometimes I think we need to go back to colonial tactics and put people in public stocks (half kidding on this). Sometimes public humiliation does a lot. I'm getting off my soapbox now.

Higher penalties!!!! Removal from rental home if caught. Higher fines. Community service . Humans are the dumbest animals on the planet. They only learn if punished severely enough.

1 month ago

Yes that was a “new” foal that everyone saw on the beach yesterday! Though not that new - she was born about a month ago but her mother has been keeping her safely out of view back on the reserve. The flies drove them out onto the beach yesterday. Her name is Cedar, after the trees she was born under, and she is the first and so far the only filly born this year.

(Photo by Beth Fleishaker/SeaCatchers Photography.)

ETA to answer repeat questions:
1. Mom’s name is Orlanda
2. No there isn’t another foal in there, she is not still pregnant. She’s just shaped like that. Mares only have one foal at a time, 11 months apart. ETA again: yes we know mares can have twins. It rarely goes well. A wild mare would probably not survive that and neither would both foals. This explanation is in response to comments that implied people thought perhaps she was going to give birth again soon. She is not. Large belly =/= pregnant.
3. We have not gotten the results of Charlie’s necropsy yet. These things take time. As soon as we know something, we will post. ... See MoreSee Less

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Y’all be pregnant for 11 months & give birth to a ~150lb baby & get back to your pre-baby body in a month & then get back to us…. 🙄 🐎

“She’s just shaped that way”….. story of my life. Beautiful mama ! Can’t wait to see this baby grow ! ❤️❤️❤️

Beautiful scene

"Shes just shaped that way" .... and with those words I met my spirit animal!! 🤣

“She’s just shaped like that.” 🙋🏼‍♀️ Same girl. Same.

Don’t ask a woman if she is pregnant!

We saw a baby on the beach when we arrived 4/16. Never saw them again the entire week. ❤️

I believe this was her yesterday walking that I caught a video of!!

They are beautiful. May they live long and healthy lives.

And I bet all y'all saying she still looks pregnant got back to your pre baby body in 1 month 😏😂

Orlanda, I am also just shaped that way. 🙌🏻😂💜 You are gorgeous, mama. Good job bringing that beautiful baby into this world.

We have an Irish Setter that lays in our cedar trees and we sometimes call her “Cedar Chip”!

Sooooooooo beautiful......I just pray that people stay away from them and not try to feed them stuff 🙏🏻🐎⛱

"She’s just shaped like that" lol. I understand this all too well... :D

The wild horses are such good mamas! Congrats and I hope we get to see her continue to grow! ❤️

So that’s Charlie (RIP), Cyclone and Cedar so far. I love this time of year when the babies start being born! They are so sweet and precious! 🐴❤️

He is perfect! Orlando you did an awesome job! Hid speed to you and your boy❤️🐴

Only thing I can say on your whole question thing is that mares can (and do) have twins but they don't hold another twin in there for a month. Now as far as wild mares go it is extremely rare, rarer than a domestic horse, for them to have twins.

Finally making her debut. Beautiful!

Mom looks like she’s treats to have another!

She sure looks swollen, hope she’s fine! Precious foal!💕

She’s not pregnant, she’s just fluffy. Orlanda, you are my spirit animal.

Beautiful photo! Pray they stay healthy & safe! ❤️🙏🏼

Awe welcome Cedar . Momma keep her safe

They are both gorgeous!!! Such a beautiful photo!

1 month ago

We’d like to thank everyone who came to see us today for the spring open house! What a wonderful day. 🥰 And congrats to Melody for winning the Brio pot! If you’re not familiar with Michaelmiddletonceramics, he makes pottery using native Currituck clay infused with hair from the horses on our rescue farm. Today we raffled off the very first Brio pot! There will of course be more to come, but this one was very special. Be sure to give Mike a follow - there are more pots for sale on his website and we have them in our shop in Corolla too.

michaelmiddletonceramics.com ... See MoreSee Less

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Baby Brio is so sweet. I think this shows off his sweetness. Thanks again for allowing us to get a glimpse of the farm.

I had a wonderful time. So good to see all the horses in your care. My favorite pic of the day. Well one of my favorites.

I had a wonderful time visiting with the horses today Brio is so beautiful You all do amazing work

Thank all of you for all you do at the farm. We had a great time and were happy to see the horses are so well taken care of.

Oh my goodness! Look how healthy and happy Baby Brio is looking! This makes my heart so happy❤️

My friends and I had a great time yesterday! Enjoyed meeting Mike Middleton and talking his ear off! I am head over heels in love with little Brio! The staff is so informative and friendly. Also enjoyed the rooster on a leash!!!

A beautiful day! So happy I got to attend and meet Junior! Many thanks to both Meg and Lyn for their wealth of knowledge and friendliness !❤️

So great to finally meet Raymond and crew on such a beautiful day! You all are so loved and appreciated… without you there would be no bankers…Thank you. Meagan … your simply the best!!!

These horses are beautiful but was this one wild at one time or it’s your own that you have had he’s cute as can be though but was just wondering cause he has a halter and lead rope on him and on a farm with fence and all

so enjoyed the Open house and getting to meet Cheeky Raymond and Master Brio❤️my first cup of joe in my new Wild Horse cup.. !😆

Thanks so very much for the quality care all of you give to the beautiful horses and adorable mule. I sincerely hope that visitors will heed the rules about the horses on the beach so that they can stay healthy and stay in their natural habitat. Thanks again. 🐴🐎

Really enjoyed our visit! When can we visit the horses? Wednesday’s?

We had a great time!! Thank you!!

We really enjoyed our visit yesterday!

You are open?? That’s exciting! I thought we would miss you in mid May!!?!

Sure wish I lived closer!

Brio is looking great!

Thanks for allowing us to tour!

We are wondering how Amelia is doing....

Fantastic!

He looks amazing.

1 month ago

As we head into a weekend that’s shaping up to be beautiful and busy, please remember to give the horses plenty of space. Over the last couple weeks we have really seen an increase in dangerous behavior from visitors to the 4x4. The rules are in place to keep you and the horses safe. The law states that you must stay 50ft away at all times, and if one of our staff tells you that you should move it’s because we are trying to keep you out of harms way. Stallions are fighting and unpredictable; if you are in their path you could get hurt and we are trying to prevent that from happening. Our staff knows the herd dynamics and can interpret behavior, and may see things that you do not. Please trust that we are not trying to ruin your moment or your photograph - quite the opposite! We want you to have a wonderful visit and see the horses safely in their natural habitat. ... See MoreSee Less

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Everyone needs to heed the warnings or someday we won’t be able to see these beautiful wild animals in a natural setting. 50 feet is not to much to ask for the privilege of having this unique experience.

Some people have never been accidentally stepped on by a domestic horse and it shows. I can’t even imagine getting near fighting stallions.

Why, why, why do people ignore the rules...there's no excuse for not being aware of them...with posted signs, some just choose to ignore...maybe the fines need to be raised & steep enough to cause a real dent in their wallets...on this Earth Day and everyday, enjoy, but be kind to our planet & its awesome gifts...

I wish you all did not have to work so hard to keep these horses safe from people, but I'm glad you do. ❤

Im so grateful for all you do to keep them and visitors safe. Our sunset tour to see horses was amazing, bucket list for sure, thanks to you all.

I remember one Spring a few years ago, we rented a house in the 4x4 area. The Stallions were fighting every day over a band of mares. Even on our last morning when we had packed up the truck and were pulling out, two started fighting in the driveway. We sat in the truck for quite awhile because the fighting had the driveway blocked. Several times we thought they were going to fall onto the truck or kick in windows by accident. Beautiful, but a brutal fight. So glad that we were already safely inside our vehicles.

This is really getting ridiculous. Signs posted, fines, special permits, etc what more is there to do. Have no more rental property in 4x4, I'm sure the owners would freak but maybe a moratorium on visitors temporarily. I wish I had a solution to keep these majestic animals safe and free.

I'd say if they're unintelligent enough to get near two WILD stallions fighting, then getting hurt is on them.

What is wrong with people????? I'm reading this in Raleigh and get very aggravated - cannot imagine being in your shoes. But the majority of us and the horses appreciate all you do to keep them safe.

And so it begins…how tragic that visitors to the OBX have to be reminded to stay away from the wild horses to keep all safe and the Horses living wild and free!

I am always concerned about the beautiful horses. Especially every time I'm there and I see how stupid people act. Thank you , Corolla Wild Horse Fund for looking out for them!💕💕

We love seeing the Corolla horses! Amazing part of being part of that carolina area. We have since moved to nevada part time where we again have wild ponies that live right here in our neighborhood, on our paved strets with traffic. I am so concered about their safety! They have lights and signs everywhere warning the horses are here and the same rules apply like Corolla. Each time they wander past my front door i wish they had a better environment like corolla!

I can't comment on the post about reports of people feeding illegally already this season with Danny's (💔) photo....but I'd contribute to a fund to have signs made and put up that say what you all said in the post about the horses lost and that if people and families want to continue to see wild horses here, they need to obey the rules. Tell Danny's story briefly and show his picture..."this baby is Danny. Danny suffered greatly and then died from choking after people illegally fed him." And the rest of the outlines of the rules and laws. Shock factor ...these are the consequences the horses suffer if you break the law.

They are beautiful to see but please listen to what they say ..If the stallions are fighting they won't care if you get in the way . Give them space

people have no idea how fast they can move, it is like getting hit by a car. I worked with horses for 40 years. Some people I have known have been killed. You are not faster than they are.

The aftermath of being kicked by one of the carriage horses. I’m really lucky she didn’t break my leg!

This pic reminds me of the black stallion books, even he was fighting the red stallion. I have no understanding of people not respecting wild animals space.

I so pray these beautiful horses can have a peaceful, carefree summer without intervention from humans 😵 (Except you guys❤️)

Hoping to visit on my return trip to Florida in May!!! I wouldn't even venture near these these beautiful stallions!!! Hopefully I'll be able to Photograph them from a great distance!!

I wish I could watch them within the rules. They are beautiful and thank you for looking out for these majestic horses.

Really time to start prosecuting this people with steep fines and jail time

Thank you for everything you do to keep Carova’s most special creatures safe. 💕

Please respect these magnificent creatures and they'll survive for centuries longer.

Wish the beautiful stallions the safest summer. They are magnificent 🐎 ❤️

What will it take for people to listen?!?!?! How many signs need to be put up?? Maybe if tourists weren’t allowed up there anymore, it may stop!!!!