Chincoteague ponies drink very little saltwater, even though they are surrounded by bodies of salt water. They drink fresh water from rainfall that collects in low-lying areas and vernal ponds.
Where do Chincoteague ponies get fresh water?
The Chincoteague Island ponies find fresh water on Assateague Island in two ways.
They drink rainwater that collects in low spots on the island. This is an inconsistent water source and depends on frequent rain showers.
They also consume water from small ponds called vernal pools or ponds.
Pine needles keep the water from going bad. The ponies need to drink a lot of water because the main grass they eat is quite salty. That’s why these ponies have big bellies.
What are vernal pools?
Vernal pools or ponds, fill up with water in the winter or spring due to rainfall or snowmelt. They will often dry up, by summer.
These pools often have a clay layer underneath. This prevents water from seeping down into the ground and staying around for a long period of time.
You can find these pools in a lot of different places like forests, or grasslands. They’re super important for the local wildlife.
Do any land animals drink saltwater?
Yes. Deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, and camels can drink salty water without getting sick.
Their kidneys have the ability to filter out extra salt. Even African elephants can drink saltwater. They have special glands to filter out the salt.
To ensure they get enough nutrients and due to the salty content of the grass, they have to eat all the time. Because of this, they have to drink double the amount of water compared to regular horses.
Who takes care of the Chincoteague ponies?
The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company (CVFC) owns and manages the Chincoteague pony herd. They provide veterinary care, emergency care, supplemental feeding, and other care for the ponies.
The Fire Company also sponsors the annual pony penning and swim every July.
The herd size kept to about 150 adult ponies. The CVFC controls the size of the herd by auctioning off most of the foals at the annual Pony Auction in July.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) allows the ponies to live on Assateague under a special-use grazing permit. It allows for approximately 150 adult ponies to stay at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
Do the Chincoteague Firemen feed the wild ponies?
Hay is provided to the wild herd during harsh winter conditions of snow and ice.
