Explore Chincoteague’s Wild Side
Chincoteague Island isn’t just famous for its world-renowned Pony Swim—it’s also a wildlife lover’s paradise. Whether you’re cruising with us at Wild Pony Boat Tours for a narrated day trip or a golden sunset cruise, you’re stepping into one of the most biodiverse and scenic areas on the Eastern Shore. From wild ponies to dolphins and bald eagles, the waterways of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands offer unforgettable encounters with nature.
This guide highlights the most commonly seen wildlife on our tours, the best times to spot them, and why this experience is a must for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Chincoteague’s Famous Wild Ponies
No visit to Chincoteague is complete without trying to catch a glimpse of its iconic wild ponies. These hardy animals roam the marshes and forests of Assateague Island, divided into northern and southern herds. The southern herd, managed by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, is most often visible during boat tours, grazing near the water or lounging in the tall grasses.
Why They’re Special:
- Descendants of colonial livestock or possibly shipwreck survivors
- Adapted to salty environments, giving them a stocky, sturdy build
- Appear in events like the Pony Swim and auction, held each July
Best Time to See: Year-round (~90% success rate)
Where to Spot: Marshy edges of Assateague Island
Learn more from the National Park Service
Bald Eagles and Osprey: Rulers of the Sky
Bald Eagles
Majestic, powerful, and unmistakable—bald eagles are a common sight on our boat tours, especially when they perch atop dead pines or glide across the sky. These raptors are year-round residents and often nest close to the water’s edge.
Best Time to See: Year-round (~75% chance)
Where to Spot: Nesting near tree lines or flying above the channel
Osprey
Sometimes mistaken for eagles at a distance, osprey are regularly seen hunting fish during warmer months. You’ll often see them diving or nesting atop platforms along the shoreline.
Best Time to See: March through September
Where to Spot: Over open water or near nesting platforms
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins
Spotting dolphins in Chincoteague’s coastal waters is always a thrill, especially when they travel in pods and play in the boat’s wake. While they aren’t present year-round, the summer and early fall bring frequent sightings.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Social, intelligent behavior—sometimes swimming alongside the boat
- Great photo ops when pods surface together
Best Time to See: Late June through early October (~50% chance)
Where to Spot: Open water, near channel mouths or inlets
NOAA’s Guide to Bottlenose Dolphins
Herons, Egrets & Shorebirds
Chincoteague and Assateague provide vital nesting and feeding grounds for a wide variety of wading birds and shorebirds.
Common Species:
- Great Blue Heron
- Snowy Egret
- Glossy Ibis
- American Oystercatcher
- Willets & Sandpipers
Best Time to See: Spring through fall
Where to Spot: Marsh edges, shallow flats, tidal zones
Birding at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Bonus Wildlife Sightings
Depending on the time of year and conditions, you might also see:
- Diamondback terrapins
- Rays and skates
- Seals (in colder months)
- Minks and raccoons
- Butterflies and dragonflies
Wildlife Viewing Tips for Your Tour
- Bring binoculars or a camera with zoom
- Wear neutral clothing
- Listen to your captain’s cues
- Be patient and observant
- Choose weekday or early morning tours for better activity
Why a Boat Tour Is the Best Way to See Wildlife
While you can hike or bike through parts of the island, nothing compares to the peaceful vantage point of a boat tour. You’ll glide through waterways and marshes that are inaccessible by land, offering unobstructed views and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Our expert captains not only navigate with care—they also provide rich narration filled with history, ecology, and stories that bring the island to life.
Final Thoughts
A Chincoteague boat tour isn’t just about seeing the wild ponies—it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant coastal ecosystem. With a little luck (and a great captain), you might witness dolphins playing, eagles soaring, and herons hunting—all in one unforgettable ride.
Whether you’re a birder, a first-time visitor, or someone who simply loves nature, Wild Pony Boat Tours offers the best seat in the house to explore Chincoteague’s wildlife from the water.
