Bonnie
Urquhart
Gruenberg, CNM, MSN

Book Explores Centuries-Old Questions

Mystery surrounds the wild horses that cling to the barrier islands of the Atlantic coast. Some say that the animals are survivors of wrecked Spanish galleons. Others say that they are descendants of stock kept by early settlers. Despite a harsh environment and pressures exerted by encroaching humanity, these horses have clung to their scattered ranges for hundreds of years--longer than Mustangs have roamed the American West--but little else about them is certain except their enduring appeal. Where did they come from? Should we manage their populations, or let nature take its course?

In her book Hoofprints in the Sand: Wild Horses of the Atlantic Coast, published by Eclipse Press, writer, artist and healthcare professional Bonnie Urquhart addresses many such questions. All the while, she explores the past, present and future of these well-known, but poorly understood creatures in thoughtful text and arresting images. Hoofprints is her first book. It is also the first major-length treatment of the subject published anywhere. Like many ground-breaking works, Hoofprints owes something to serendipity.

An accomplished rider since childhood and a riding instructor for many years, Urquhart became aware of the plight of Eastern Seaboard horses during an impromptu vacation."When I first visited Cape Hatteras, North Carolina," she writes, "I was amazed to learn of the presence of feral horses on several nearby coastal islands. It surprised me to learn that until recently, feral horses and other livestock ranged on many East Coast barrier islands, and today occupy islands off the coast of Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, and Georgia.

For the next six years, Urquhart spent long hours in libraries and salt marshes separating fact from myth. Along the way, she learned that each population of horses has its own character, its own history and its own set of problems and concerns; that each has made a unique contribution to local culture; and that knowledge enhances wonder.She considers her goal worth the effort. "We are the guardians of wild creatures, and as such it is our duty to act in their best interest. We alter their destiny whether we act or choose to do nothing," she writes. "Accurate information is essential to wise management."Urquhart presents a great deal of information, old and new, in clear, engaging prose. But she goes deeper, delving not only into history and genetics, but also into meanings--what these horses signify and what they tell us about ourselves. The result is a vivid portrait of threatened animals and the changing islands that they have made their home.

What the critics are saying:

"A solidly researched subject...The author injects just enough of her own experience to put the reader into the scene."--Katherine Walcott, Eventing USA**

"Bonnie Urquhart tackles the topics in a beautifully written manner. She discusses the different herds and the individual traits of each herd, along with the population numbers of each group. Best of all, the text is loaded with outstanding photographs taken by the author. I'd go see a show of her photographs in a heartbeat! I highly recommend this book for both the artistic expression contained within, as well as the in-depth research on the wild horses and ponies."--
Hallie McEvoy, Horsemen's Yankee Pedlar

"If you've experienced the allure of the wild ponies on Chincoteague Island, you'll enjoy Hoofprints in the Sand...Engaging stories, colorful histories, and attractive photos bring the herds to life."
--Michelle Gstattenbauer, Chronicle of the Horse