If you take a four-wheeler out to a long stretch of uninhabited beach in Corolla, you'll see a glittering coastline, pristine, untouched vegetation, and something magical: wild horses. It's a rare and wonderful sight, wild horses roaming the beach, and something we're lucky to be able to experience in North Carolina.
The wild horses have called North Carolina home long before any beachgoers, or really serious explorers, claimed the land. They're descendants of Spanish Mustangs left by explorers. The first documented account of exploration dates back to 1528.
Throughout the many years that passed, they learned to survive in the harsh landscape. At one point, they were even thriving, with thousands of horses calling this stretch of beach home. Due to the completion of NC HWY12 from Duck to Corolla, their livelihood, safety, and prosperity were quickly put at risk.
What once was 1000 quickly dwindled to now almost 100. Between speeding cars hitting horses, population growth and massive development, the horses lost their secluded home. While they are amazing at adjusting to life, they couldn't quite adjust to the influx of people.
Thanks to programs like the Corolla Wild Horse Fund, the horses have been able to continue calling Corolla home. They're even treated with a 'darted contraception' shot safely dispensed from a gun that delivers a vaccine to help mares live longer and healthier lives since they are not giving birth once a year. Plenty of work goes on behind the scenes to keep the Corolla Wild Horses just as majestic, wild, and plentiful as they once were.
Once the gravel becomes sand, the remote, 11-mile stretch of land is accessible only with four-wheel drive. Many come each year just for a glimpse at the majestic creatures. Some even get to enjoy their morning coffee on the balcony of a beach house while admiring the horses.
People are asked to stay 50 feet away and to not feed or pet the horses.
If four-wheel drive isn't an option, you can take a guided tour to witness the horses for yourself. Any time of year, it's one of the most magical sights you'll see!
North Carolina is home to some truly magical sights and places, but the Corolla Wild Horses are one of a kind. Have you witnessed them for yourself?
Corolla isn't the only location with wild horses - you can catch them on Shackleford Banks and Currituck!
If you love North Carolina magic, these 15 places are straight out of a fairytale.
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