Shackleford Horses Available for Adoption

Date: April 23, 2009
Contact: Wouter Ketel, [phone] Ext. 3005

Harkers Island, NC -- Cape Lookout National Seashore Superintendent Russel J. Wilson announces that seven relocated Shackleford horses are seeking loving, forever homes on the mainland.

Still running wild on a barrier island in the Atlantic, Banker horses represent an enchanting piece of history.  Their herd members hold a genetic link to Old Spanish horses, and they are recognized by the Horse of the America’s Registry.  They are part of the cultural history of the Outer Banks where they have lived for centuries.

Born wild and removed for population control, these youngsters gentle well with time and patience, and are generally recognized by other owners as being exceptionally intelligent.  Shackleford horses grow to 11 to 13 hands (4 inches per hand). They are kept as companions for other horses and for people.  They can be trained for driving or riding; Traveller, removed in 2001, provided lead-line transportation for an 8 year old boy who rode him in a local July 4^th parade this past summer.

Horses of different ages are available through the Foundation for Shackleford Horses, Inc.    Most recently removed from the island are Soprano, a proud 19 month old colt; Sacajawea, a pretty 22 month old filly; Salsa, an adorable 12 month old filly; and Adagio, a bright 10 month old colt.

Adoptions are handled on a first-come basis. An adoption fee is charged and there are facility requirements.

For more information and/or an adoption application contact Anita Kimball at [phone] or, after 6:00 p.m., Joy Lawrence at [phone].  To make an appointment to see the horses, contact Anita Kimball.  In Florida, contact Bob Cubbage at [phone].