The Salt River wild horses are a group of free-roaming horses that live in the Tonto National Forest along the lower Salt River in Arizona. They are known for their unique genetic heritage, their adaptation to the desert environment and are locally celebrated for their resilience. These horses have been a part of Arizona's heritage for centuries and have become a symbol of the American West.
In recent years, there has been significant attention and conservation efforts focused on protecting and managing these horses due to their cultural significance and the threats they face from development, habitat loss, and human interaction. Various organizations and stakeholders have been involved in efforts to ensure the welfare and preservation of the Salt River wild horses while also managing their impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
"Don't fence me in". A young stallion takes it upon himself to break down a plastic barrier at this Salt River recreation area while his siblings watch. There had been a gate here, but it was damaged and before it was replaced, the Salt River Wild Horse Management folks thought this plastic tape would keep them in. Surprise!
Salt River Wild Horse family meeting??? It seems as if this little filly might be tattling on her big brother as mama mare intently listens.
Looks like this Salt River Wild Horse mama mare is very proud (and protective) of her colt.
The three Salt River Wild Horse colts in the foreground were born around the same time and spend their days "horsing" around and hanging out with the rest of their band.
A small band of Salt River wild horses heads across the Salt River towards their evening resting spot in the Tonto National Forest.
This Salt River Wild Horse band is cooling off in the Salt River and the white horse is likewise showing a cool water reflection.
Brothers?…Rivals?…Father and Son?….it's anyone’s guess. They meet up in the Salt River with some splashing, some posturing and a lot of snorting. They both lowered their heads, touched muzzles and that was as physical as it got. Then each one slowly turned and walked back to his own band. It seemed astonishing at first, but then horses do remember each other.... so maybe just some brotherly love?
The brown foal in the center is about three days old and is one of several newbies in the the Salt River Wild Horse bands. The background rainbow is pretty cool too!
Salt River wild horses cooling off at Saguaro Lake along with several coots hanging out in the background.
Two young Salt River Wild Horse colts at play. Although it may look like they are fighting, I've observed these two over several months and they spend most of their day together just like this.