Cape Lookout National Seashore Announces Autumn Horse Sense and Survival Trips

News Release Date: October 19, 2016

Contact: B.G. Horvat, 252-728-2250, ext. 3014

 HARKERS ISLAND, NC –Cape Lookout National Seashore is pleased to announce two opportunities to join the Horse Sense and Survival tours with Wildlife Biologist Sue Stuska. The trips will take place on Wednesday, October 26 out of Harkers Island Visitor Center at 9 a.m., and finally on Saturday, November 19 from the Beaufort Visitor Information Center at 8:45 a.m.

Sue Stuska's intimate knowledge of the horses makes for an exciting and enlightening glimpse into the relationships, behavior, and survival of these wild animals. Participants will gain an appreciation of all that can be gleaned while watching from a distance. They will understand how to determine an appropriate position and distance for watching that doesn't affect the horses' natural behaviors.

"This is a great opportunity for visitors to see and learn about the wild horses," said Superintendent Patrick Kenney. "The Shackleford horses are an important part of what makes Cape Lookout National Seashore a special place."

Participants will ride the ferry from Harkers Island or Beaufort and walk a moderate-level trek off the beaten path to find horses and settle down to watch them. Come prepared for a day in the sun, climbing dunes, walking through brush and navigating in deep sand. Note: Those interested in the trip from Harkers Island will likely include slogging through ankle-deep mud and deeper salt water.

Make the most of your excursion by coming prepared. Shoes that protect your feet and stay on in the mud are required. It is strongly recommended to bring water, lunch/snacks, bug repellent, sunscreen, sun hat, binoculars, and camera with a telephoto lens in a daypack or shoulder bag.

Spaces on the tours are limited and reservations are required. The program is free; the ferry is $16 for adults & $9 for children (11 and under).

For reservations and to ask individual questions, call the park at 252-728-2250, ext. 3001. For more information, including meeting places, times, and ferry costs, see http://go.nps.g/pxqou7.