06/08/2026
As summer seems to be in full swing on the island I wanted to address a heavy topic. Assateague is a bucket list destination for many and while posting images may encourage others to feel drawn to such a place I also want to be socially responsible so that the horses stay safe. Some visitors may not understand the ethics of wildlife encounters so I want to be helpful in educating. This by no means is to say that I know more, but after observing over many years I do have some insight.
For me, photographing the wild horses comes down to one thing: respect. Every image I share represents a living, wild animal whose well-being matters far more than any photograph. I believe being a responsible wildlife photographer means giving animals the space they need, avoiding behaviors that cause stress, and never putting a shot ahead of their welfare.
While social media often highlights the final image, I think it's equally important to highlight the ethics behind it. Not every photograph needs to be close-up or perfectly sharp if keeping a respectful distance is what's best for the animal. My goal is to share the beauty of the island while encouraging others to appreciate these animals in a way that prioritizes their safety, comfort, and natural behavior.
We see so many unhealthy interactions and it can be emotionally exhausting that the rules in place to keep the animals and people safe are casually disregarded. While this may be unintentional I hoped that this would bring some awareness on a social media platform with so many following in a positive way.
The welfare of the wildlife will always come first. The photograph is simply a reflection of that respect.
Tips specific to the island:
•When a horse approaches you it is YOUR responsibility to BACK UP (Not stand your ground or hit them)
•NO petting or touching (Research horse bite images for yourself if this one needs explanation) You couldn’t touch them if you are the required 40ft away.
•DO NOT FEED THEM! You may think it sounds nice to bring apples and carrots but that is NOT the diet that the island horses eat. This could cause sickness or death.
*if you didn’t know dog food is toxic to horses and we lost a mare to this circumstance in the past*
•They may visit the beach which is why the park rules ask you to leave food in your cars or in a hard container (They can open a cooler if not strapped closed).
•If you see the horses coming while on the beach pick up your bag and walk away. They will quickly move on once they realize there is nothing there for them. This ISN’T an enchanting encounter. It is what has been created as people who don’t follow the rules.
•While the horses may seem docile at times they are very much a wild creature that can turn on a dime.
•Stallions and mares will bite and kick.
•Visitors used to turn on faucets for the horses thinking it helps them. This is NOT the case. Horses know where the water sources are and if you turn on water for them they can guard the resource and become aggressive when trying to turn it off.
•Keep your windows rolled up if they approach your car. If they approach in a parking lot close the vehicle quickly and back away.
•Don’t try to take your items back from them once they have it. Consider it a loss. This is why traveling light is your best option.
•drive SLOW!! We lose too many to vehicle strikes!! Young foals can’t jump the barriers and may panic when trying to keep up with their momma. Horses commonly walk in the roadways as they are a prey animals and feel the openness of the road gives them the best line of vision to a predator.
Stay safe and enjoy our treasures 🐴
