Commonly called wild, Mustangs are more appropriately termed feral since they are descendants of once domesticated horses. When explorers came to America in the Age of Discovery, they brought with them horse breeds from Spain which today roam free in the West. After the passage of legislation, Mustangs are now protected and monitored in the United States. Thought to pose a threat or compete with cattle, it was discovered that Mustangs feed and can survive in areas where cattle could not. They can live farther from water sources from cattle -- sometimes traveling fifty miles per day! Due to the natural selection process, these free spirits are hardy and durable.
Fun Facts: A large, wild Mustang population in the United States is protected by the federal government.
Zoological Name: Equus ferus
Conservation Status: Domesticated
