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Assateague Ponies
of Assateague and Chincoteague Islands
Page 12
Other animals that
reside on Assateague
Sika Deer
Sika deer, are a type of
small Asian Elk. Sika means "Deer" in Japanese. These spotted deer are
smaller than white tail deer. They were introduced on Assateague in the
1920's.
Male Red-winged Black Bird
The Red-winged Black Bird is about 7
inches long. They can be found on the island all year round. In the warmer
months food is plentiful for this insect eating bird. He will also feed on
seeds. During breeding season, (May-June) they can get quite territorial. Males
have been known to swoop down at those who wander too close to his nest. Females
are smaller than males and resemble sparrows more than they do a blackbird.
Their rewings are dark brown above, heavily streaked below, and have lengthy,
spike-like bills.
The wingspan of a Great Egret (Casmerodius albus) can be
over 50 inches
This turtle was found crossing one
of the roads in Assateague. Some caring tourists stopped their car to
move it to a safer location.
Cattle egrets are a great
asset to the ponies. They perch on the ponies backs and eat the insects off
of their coats. Ponies have been seen allowing these birds to even pick
insects from between their eyes.
Black skimmers can be seen on
the island. They are the only birds in the world whose lower beak is longer
than their upper. They use this unique beak to skimm the water to catch
fish.
Delmarva fox squirrels are
larger then gray squirrels, and are listed as endangered species.
Bald eagles are considered a
threatened species. They can live longer than 30 years.
American oystercatchers, are
birds whose bright colored bills can open oysters, muscles and other sea
creatures.
Hognose snakes can be found
on the sand dunes. They are harmless to humans, eating small animals such as
toads.
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Raccoons, ducks, blue heron,
wading birds, sandpipers and
red fox can also be found on the island. Along with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, many
types of fish, crabs, snails, mussels and other marine life. |
Dragon Fly
The highway leaving Assateague Island
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Assateague Island Info
Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV)
Horses with "Trailer Fear"
Wild Animals
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Creatures
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Reliability with Non-Canine Pets
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