North Carolina officials are urging visitors to avoid approaching wild horses along the coast, particularly at the Rachel Carson Reserve in Beaufort, following a concerning incident involving a six-day-old foal. The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality emphasized the importance of respecting wildlife laws after the foal was separated from its mother due to disturbances caused by humans on foot and in boats.

The warning comes in light of previous incidents where visitors have harassed wild horses, including attempts to capture foals for photographs. The Rachel Carson Reserve is home to several wild horse populations, and state officials are reminding the public of local ordinances that prohibit approaching within 50 feet of these animals.

To report any violations, visitors are encouraged to safely document the incident and contact the Town of Beaufort Police Department. The wild horses at the reserve, which have been part of the area since the 1940s, are a significant attraction, and protecting them is crucial for their survival and well-being.