09/26/2025
You may have noticed that many of our recent posts have focused on family and emotion. Today, we continue with that theme.
Death is not an easy subject to face—neither in our own lives with those we love, nor in the lives of the animals around us. But if we pay attention, we see that all animals exhibit emotions around death.
Our volunteers have been honored to witness wild horse behavior that most people will never observe—and that some may even choose not to see. The death of a bandmate, and the funeral that follows, brings together nearby bands to pay their respects to the grieving group.
When a family member dies—whether from illness, injury, or colic—the lead stallion lets out a long, shrill whinny while his band hovers near their fallen companion. In the distance, faint vocal responses can be heard. Within the hour, the sound of hooves begins to approach. One by one, other bands arrive nearby.
The ritual begins. The visiting stallion greets the mourning stallion with a sniff and a snort. After this introduction, the visiting band approaches, stops, sniffs, and sometimes touches the deceased horse before moving on in single file. This scene is repeated with each band’s arrival. When the final band has paid their respects, the family is left alone to maintain their vigil. This watch continues until the lead stallion decides it is time to move on.
The photo below, from 2019, shows a mother saying her final goodbye to her youngster—struck by a vehicle—after an almost 24-hour vigil. (Top
right)
Another photo from 2017 captures bandmates grieving over Clydette, who passed away due to birthing complications and a band showing respect.(Middle and bottom right)
Another photo shows Uncle Sam's bandmates saying farewell. (Top left)
Our next photograph from 2024, shows Bella watching over Cholla.(Bottom left)
So yes, we are “those crazy horse people.” And yes, we not only believe that horses are highly intelligent and capable of feeling deep emotion—we bear witness to it. Every day, we are privileged to observe these beautiful animals during some of the most intimate moments of their lives.
It truly is—As the River Flows.
