The National Park Service cares for the Ocracoke horses, which roam in the Pony Pen on the island. Outer Banks Forever is offering an adopt-a-pony program as a unique Christmas gift, supporting the costs of caring for the wild Ocracoke Banker ponies. Recipients will receive a photo and official adoption certificate by mail or digitally with a minimum $50 gift required.

Those interested in adopting a pony must make their selection by Dec. 11 to receive a photo and adoption certificate by mail. For digital adoptions, the deadline is Dec. 23. Photos and descriptions of the ponies available for symbolic adoption can be found on the Outer Banks Forever website. Adopters can choose between receiving their documentation by mail or digitally by selecting the “Digital Option” during the adoption process.