Outer Banks Forever, the nonprofit partner of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, has launched its 2025 “Adopt a Pony for the Holidays” campaign to support the iconic Ocracoke pony herd. These ponies, descendants of Spanish horses from 16th- and 17th-century shipwrecks, are a cherished part of Ocracoke Island’s heritage. Through symbolic adoptions starting at $50, supporters can choose to adopt one of the herd’s 11 distinctive ponies or the entire group, receiving a photo and official certificate as a meaningful gift.

Proceeds from the campaign fund the ponies’ daily care, including feeding and veterinary services. To ensure holiday delivery, mailed adoptions must be ordered by December 8, while digital adoptions can be made through December 19. This initiative offers a unique way to give a memorable gift while helping preserve a living landmark of Ocracoke Island. More details are available at obxforever.org/adoptapony/.