Banker horse facts for kids
Horses on Corolla Island
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| Distinguishing features | Small, compact conformation |
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| Country of origin | United States of America |
| Horse (Equus ferus caballus) | |
The Banker horse is a special type of horse. It used to live with people, but now it lives wild. These horses roam freely on the Outer Banks of North Carolina in the United States. They are known for being tough and able to survive on their own.
Contents
What is a Banker Horse?
Banker horses are a unique breed. They are often called "Banker ponies" because they are smaller than many other horses. These horses are known for being strong and hardy. They have adapted well to living in the sandy, coastal environment of the Outer Banks.
Where Do Banker Horses Live?
Banker horses live on the Outer Banks, which are a chain of barrier islands. These islands are off the coast of North Carolina. The horses live in different herds on several islands. Some of these islands include Corolla, Shackleford Banks, and Ocracoke Island.
How Did Banker Horses Get There?
Historians believe these horses arrived hundreds of years ago. They likely came with early European explorers or settlers. Some stories say they swam ashore from shipwrecks. Other stories suggest they were left behind by explorers. Over time, these horses became wild, or "feral." They learned to live without human help.
Life on the Outer Banks
Living on the Outer Banks is not easy for horses. The environment is challenging. They face hot summers, strong winds, and even hurricanes. They also have to find their own food and fresh water.
What Do Banker Horses Eat?
These horses mostly eat the plants that grow on the islands. This includes marsh grasses and other tough vegetation. They are very good at finding food in their habitat.
How Do They Find Water?
Fresh water can be scarce on the islands. Banker horses are clever at finding it. They often dig shallow holes in the sand. This helps them reach fresh water that is just below the surface. This skill helps them survive in dry times.
How Are Banker Horses Managed?
Even though they are wild, these horses are managed by different groups. This helps keep them healthy and safe. The groups make sure the herds do not get too big. They also provide veterinary care if a horse gets sick or hurt. This management helps protect the horses for the future.
Protecting the Herds
Several organizations work to protect Banker horses. They monitor the horse populations. They also make sure the horses have enough space and resources. This work helps keep the herds healthy and strong. It also protects their natural habitat.
Images for kids
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A map showing herd locations
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Aerial view of a barrier island in the North Carolina Outer Banks
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Drinking from a horse-dug water hole on Shackleford Banks
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A Banker horse on Ocracoke Island
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A freeze branded mare on Shackleford
See also
In Spanish: Caballo de los Outer Banks para niños
