This lovely animal originally from Japan are actually oriental elk released on the refuge in 1923. This animal is very people tolerant as long as you move slowly. Remember there is no feeding or petting any animals at Chincoteague. One can get very close to take their picture. The 14.5 mile wildlife loop, lasting an hour and a half gives a look at a limit-access area of Chincoteague.
Nature abounds in each an every direction.
You do not witness this remarkable behavior elsewhere. One of the best places to see and observe the diverse wildlife of Chincoteague is along the ditches just after you enter the park. It's a good spot to photograph great blue herons, night herons, cormorants, green herons and egrets. The light is very good both early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Use telephoto lens to isolate wildlife.