Intro
The Banker Pony inhabits the Outer Banks of Carolinas and are also called Shackleford ponies, Banker horses & Ocracoke ponies.
Origins
Believed to be descendant of Spanish horses brought by some of the first explorers to the area early in the 16th century.
The initial bloodlines of these animals were undoubtedly influenced by English horses as well as Spanish during early exploration. However, their blood has remained relatively pure due to their isolation
Causing Controversy
The Banker ponies have been the topic of controversy, some conservationists believe that they are destroying their natural habitat & want them removed. While animal activists believe that if the horses have always been there, they should be allowed to stay in their natural habitat.
Currently the horses on these islands are managed (similar to Assateague ponies) to keep numbers at a sustainable level by the National Park Service.
Features
Average height 13 – 14.3 hands
A tough animal with typical hardy Spanish traits
Physique
Head is simple with broad forehead and generally convex profile
Deep, narrow chest & short back
Often lack chestnuts on hind legs
Traditional Colors
All colors
Temperament
Docile and friendly for wild ponies
Willing to learn & easy to train
Use
Wild horses
Riding pony
Pleasure pony
Helpful Links
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Shackleford Horses
Visit NC
North Carolina Wild Horses
Where to Buy
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