Ocracoke Banker Ponies

Several hundreds of years ago, a shipwreck just offshore left a herd of Spanish mustangs stranded on Ocracoke Island. Their descendants still thrive here today. These ponies are a rare breed with an unusual number of vertebrae and ribs as well as a distinct shape, posture, color, size, and weight that sets them apart from other horses.

Though once they roamed wild on the island, the Ocracoke Banker Ponies have been penned for their protection and cared for by the National Park Service since 1959. They have 188 acres of sound-side beach and marsh to explore but prefer to hang around their paddocks and stables, especially at feeding time. Visit them at the Ocracoke Pony Pens located off Highway 12.