"BLAME IT OR PRAISE IT, THERE'S NO DENYING THE WILD HORSE IN US."
- Virginia Wolfe
For some time, I’ve been curating and editing images of the mustangs of McCullough Peaks Horse Management Area (HMA), Wyoming, with the intent to form an entire collection of wild horse artwork on this hardy and rugged herd. We've spent the past few years following and photographing them, marveling at the striking multi-colored paints, muscled stallions, and their long muddy manes.
“Untamed” captures a majestic stallion protecting his band, warning a rival stallion to back off, displaying his power, indomitable spirit and beauty. Free and untamed.
Unfortunately, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced last week a planned roundup of almost 2/3 of this herd. The BLM is seeking public comment on the roundup, but unless the plan changes, much of this amazing herd will be gone later this year.
Reducing the herd by so much risks rendering the herd genetically unviable, according to Dr. Gus Cothran from Texas A&M University. The plan seems especially unnecessary when current population control methods are keeping the herd growth to only 2% per year.
To comment on the BLM’s plan regarding the removal of the wild horses, click on the
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An equestrian for most of her life, Maria combines her passion for horses with her art and the desire to bring public awareness to the American wild horses. Maria Marriott Photography is a proud supporter of several non-profit organizations that tirelessly work to ensure the well-being of the American mustangs.