Assateague Island visitor kicked in crotch by horse after getting too close
Lucas GonzalezIn case you needed a reminder to not approach wild animals, a viral video shot on Assateague Island serves as a perfect example why.
The video, which was uploaded to YouTube by the channel ViralHog, shows a speedo-clad beachgoer getting too close for comfort to one of the island's wild horses in an attempt to pet it. Not even seconds later, the horse reacts by kicking him in the groin—and down he goes.
Assateague Island officials say the video clearly illustrates why they warn visitors to exercise caution around the wild animals.
"The human/horse interaction that was captured on camera is a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of wild horses. These types of interactions can happen in an instant," said Liz Davis, chief of interpretation and education with Assateague Island National Seashore.
Officials could not determine whether the incident captured on video happened on the part of the island owned by the state or federal government.
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Nevertheless, visitors are reminded that state park regulations prohibit visitors from feeding, touching or intentionally disturbing wildlife. That includes the wild horses, according to Gregg Bortz, media relations manager with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Visitors to the island are asked to keep the following in mind:
- Horses bite and kick in response to crowding or competition for food. Visitors can be knocked down and stepped on if horses spook or react suddenly.
- Give the horses their space. Move a “bus length” or 40 feet away when a horse approaches. Do not try to save your belongings. Wait until the horse is out of the area.
- Visitors should be particularly mindful of their position if there is more than one horse around. Pinned ears and sudden movements indicate agitation that can lead to kicking and biting.
- When at all possible, keep food safely stored in a vehicle. If food must be brought to the beach, store it in a sturdy zippered bag or in a cooler that is secured shut with a strap.
- Horses are large animals, making it dangerous for anyone, especially children, to get too close.
The incident comes just days before Pony Penning, Chincoteague Island's annual week of events featuring their famed ponies.
Since Chincoteague's ponies are also wild, visitors should remember to not approach them. The island's rules say to stay at least 50 feet away from the ponies and to not approach or feed them.
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"Unfortunately, incidents like this happen every year. Regardless of your comfort level around horses, visitors to Assateague must remain aware of their surroundings at all times, especially around the wild horses," Davis said.