Feral Horses in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve/Mtn Park

[SgtLumpy]

"Feral" by typical definition = animals that once were domestic but are now roaming the wild. In the case of horses, I think the definition gets stretched sometimes to include domesticated horses that are allowed to roam free (accidently or deliberately) and may seasonally or occasionally return to their domestic home. Here's some pics of some of our local ferals. These pics were taken about a year ago in the McDowell Mtn Park. They come up to the equestrian parking area and drink, look for food etc. I've seen them both there in the park and in the MSPreserve. They tend to be north of Tom's Thumb, East of the Troon luxury homes, south of Rio Verde Dr. They are likely from the ranch of George Williams, which is north of the TThumb trailhead near Rio Verde Dr and 132 St.







These horses tend to have that "wild" look - flat feet, mares typically have ribs showing, slighter larger ears, generally bay or black bay color caused by mixing of breeds. This may suggest that these horses may indeed have been born in the wild, rather than just "out partying" from a local ranch. They may have descended from local ranch horses but they may have been born out here on the desert. Like most wild animals in parks and preserves, they've learned where the humans put the water and the food.

Generally, horse history experts tend to suggest that no modern horses are native to N America. The original horse-like animals that lived here millions of years ago have died off as a species. Current day horses were brought from Europe/S America etc. Mules, of course, are not native to anywhere. They are a cross between horse and donkey, typically the result of an abandoned miner/explorer in the 19th century.

There are social/political arguments on both sides. Personally, I like the idea that they're out there, just as I like the idea that there's coyotes and rattle snakes. I'll drive slower on desert roads and not text while I drive so I can pay attention and not hit one. If they were to come into my yard and eat my plants, I figure that would be a great trade off for having these guys hanging out around me.


Hike like you hope nature is in balance -


Sgt Lumpy - n0eq