Mysterious Disappearance of Wild Horses on Outer Banks Leaves Locals Wondering: Where Do They Go? – Daily Press

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is home to a unique population of wild horses that roam freely on the beaches and marshes of this picturesque barrier island. These horses, known as the Corolla wild horses, have been a beloved and iconic symbol of the Outer Banks for centuries. However, in recent years, a mysterious phenomenon has been puzzling researchers and locals alike – the sudden disappearance of some of these wild horses for months at a time.

The Corolla wild horses are believed to have descended from Spanish mustangs that were brought to the Outer Banks by early explorers and settlers. These horses have adapted to the harsh coastal environment and have thrived in the wild, forming tight-knit family groups and grazing on the abundant grasses and vegetation that grow in the dunes and marshes.

Despite their resilience and resourcefulness, some of these wild horses have been known to vanish without a trace, leaving researchers and wildlife experts scratching their heads. These disappearances have been reported sporadically over the years, with some horses reappearing after several months, seemingly unharmed and in good health.

So where do these wild horses go when they disappear? There are several theories that have been proposed to explain this mysterious phenomenon. Some believe that the horses may be seeking out new sources of food or water, venturing into remote areas of the island where they are not easily spotted. Others speculate that the horses may be following their natural instincts to migrate or explore new territories.

Another possibility is that the horses may be seeking shelter from extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or severe storms that occasionally batter the Outer Banks. It is not uncommon for wildlife to seek refuge in protected areas during inclement weather, and the wild horses may be no exception.

Despite these theories, the exact reasons for the disappearances of the Corolla wild horses remain a mystery. Researchers continue to study the behavior and movements of these majestic animals in the hopes of unraveling the enigma of their vanishing acts. In the meantime, locals and visitors to the Outer Banks are left to wonder and marvel at the resilience and adaptability of these iconic creatures that call this unique coastal paradise home.