Learn more about “Assateague Island National Seashore Horses”

The Assateague Island National Seashore is home to two distinct herds of wild horses, famously known as the Assateague ponies. These horses are managed by the National Park Service in Maryland and the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company in Virginia. The unique management practices include the use of PZP fertility control, which has been successfully implemented since 1988 to maintain a stable population without the need for roundups. The annual Pony Penning Day, where the horses swim to Chincoteague Island, highlights their cultural significance and raises funds for their management. These iconic horses symbolize the wild spirit of America and are a vital part of the region's heritage.