Assateague Island, MD: A place to vacation with natural beauty.
Located along the eastern shore in Maryland there is a place to travel to just south of Ocean City MD. Nestled alongside the Atlantic coast, Assateague Island in Maryland is a pristine and spell-binding holiday spot that captivates the hearts of all who visit. Known for its unspoiled beaches, wildlife, and unique coastal landscapes, Assateague Island is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and ride seekers alike.
Assateague Island stretches alongside the coast of Maryland and Virginia, encompassing 37 miles (60 kilometers) of natural wonder. The Maryland component of the island, recognized as Assateague Island National Seashore, is a particular protected area, keeping the island's pristine environment. The island is located about 10 miles south of Ocean City, Maryland.
Assateague Island was connected to Fenwick Island when the settlers arrived in the 1600s. A storm occurred in August of 1933 separating Fenwick Island creating Assateague Island. Today Assateague Island remains to bring tourists and visitors to see the wild ponies along with wind-swept beaches with white powdery sand. Legend from the locals stated that the Chincoteague ponies arrived on the island from pirates and shipwrecks. No records have been proven to say how ponies arrived on the island.
The pony's diet lives off salt marsh plants & brush is poor quality and the food source is seasonally scarce. With uncontrolled inbreeding new bloodlines began in the 19th & 20th centuries from outside bloodlines being added to the herd. Assateague Island has two herds with 80 to 100 horses. The Govt treats the ponies for overpopulation as they are feral and receive no assistance.
Throughout the island plenty of marshes with mosquitos, and flies which can be a nuisance. When I was getting out of my vehicle to photograph ponies I was covered ( Bring bug spray lots of it) "if you are visiting the marshes". I decided to head over to the beach After the bug invasion.
I discovered a foul with his mother and a few others below are pictures I photographed while standing 40 feet away. The horses like the beach to get a break from the flies. At times you may see them playing in the surf or standing on the shore. However, security is watching along with park personnel to make sure people obey the rules.
Lot more history and wonderful views on the Island check out the Assateague Island website for more information.
