The herd on the Maryland side of the island consisted of 14 bands and 81 horses, according to the inventory dated July 16, no change from June.
Seven foals were born this year.
The sex ratio cannot be determined but is likely skewed in favor of females.
If a dominant stallion runs each band, and seven mares are viable, the breeding population is very small, less than 20% of the herd size, seven years after the safe, proven and reversible darting program was shut off.
The BLM WHB Handbook indicates the breeding population should exceed 50 animals to maintain an acceptable level of genetic diversity.
The pesticide of choice was Zonastat-H, a miracle drug according to the advocates.
The Assateague Island Alliance updates the lists monthly.
RELATED: Assateague Pony Census, June 2023.
Western Horse Watchers Association 