Assateague Island National Seashore

… was established on this date 40 years ago. The National Park Service tells us:

Assateague Island

Storm tossed seas, as well as gentle breezes shape Assateague Island. This barrier island is a tale of constant movement and change.

Bands of wild horses freely roam amongst plants and native animals that have adapted to a life of sand, salt and wind. Special thickened leaves and odd shapes reveal the plant world’s successful struggle here. Ghost crabs buried in the cool beach sand and tree swallows plucking bayberries on their southward migration offer glimpses of the animal world’s connection to Assateague.