When people come to the Outer Banks for vacation, they think of only the surf, sand and sun. There are many other things for you to do and see. One of the things that is a must do and see would be the Outer Banks wild horses and the last mule of Corolla. And don’t be surprised if you are staying in your oceanfront vacation rental if you happen to spy Raymond or one of the other OBX wild horses. They wanted to come by for a quick hello.
About Raymond and The Wild Horses
Last winter, it was believed that the last living mule was dying and many thought that they would never see him again. Raymond, the mule was originally thought to have passed away during the winter months but he didn’t and proved he is just too stubborn to go. Meg Puckett, the herd manager of Corolla Wild Horse Fund, thought Raymond had passed away after a last effort to save him in November. They had to drug him to be able to saw down his hooves which had become so deformed it was difficult to walk. Many of the locals who know of Raymond took to social media to celebrate his return to the rest of the Outer Banks wild horses.
The wild colonial mustangs are believed to have been brought to the Outer Banks more than 400 years ago. The mules came later when the farmers worked the barrier islands and their livestock got loose among the wild mustangs. While the farmers are now long gone and with Raymond being the only remaining mule of the bunch, it will be a sad time for all who are familiar with him when he passes away. It will feel like a little piece of history has died along with Raymond.
Where to See the Outer Banks Wild Horses
The Outer Banks wild horses roam freely in Corolla and most are going to be found in the 4-wheel drive areas of the beach. While it is illegal to come within 50 feet of the horses, you can still admire their beauty from a safe distance. Please note that you cannot pet or feed these wild horses as they are not like domestic horses. And in 2010 the Spanish Mustang was designated as North Carolina’s official state horse. What an amazing accomplishment for keeping the history of these horses alive. If you’d like a little help seeking out these beautiful animals, there are many tours available to see the Outer Banks wild horses in the Corolla area!
If you are still looking to take a family vacation this year, then please look at one of our Outer Banks vacation rentals. We’d love for you to come visit our beautiful area, and to see the beautiful wild horses and Raymond the mule. Don’t miss seeing Raymond before he is gone forever!
