Wild Horses of the Eastern Sierra
Wild Horses of the Eastern Sierra
When you think of the “American West,” one of the most iconic animals that comes to mind is the wild horse. These creatures are rugged, self-reliant, independent, and free. Current estimates suggest that over 70,000 wild horses and burros roam the American West. You can even witness several herds in Bishop’s expansive backyard as part of your wildlife safari.
They’re Their Own Animals
While wild horses are descendants of domesticated breeds, they have evolved to withstand the harsh conditions of nature. They tend to be slightly smaller and stockier, making them better suited for the dry, open landscape of the West. Wild horses typically stand 13 to 15 hands high (52 to 60 inches, measured from the ground to the tops of their shoulders) and weigh between 700 and 1,000 pounds, while domestic horses usually stand 4 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall and weigh between 1,200 and 2,200 pounds.
Are Wild Horses Native?
The lineage of the wild horse is a topic of much debate. While it’s true that conquistadors reintroduced horses to North America, fossil records show that the modern horse, Equus caballus, actually evolved on the continent about 4 million years ago before spreading to Eurasia. The last prehistoric horse species in North America, Equus occidentalis, went extinct around 11,000 to 12,000 years ago.
Where to See Them
One of the best places to see these symbols of the American West is Wild Horse Meadow along SR-120, about 30 miles west of Benton. As the name suggests, these horses are WILD and can bite, kick, or charge if approached too closely by humans or dogs. It’s best to observe them from a distance while staying still and quiet. If you want to feed, pet, or ride a horse, consider contacting one of Bishop’s outfitters to enjoy a ride on one of their trained horses instead.
Interesting Wild Horse Facts:
- The Spanish horses became known as mustangs, from the Spanish word mesteño, which means “wild.”
- Wild horses are one of only two federally protected animals, alongside bald eagles, that receive such a special level of protection. This designation was due to wild horses becoming endangered, leading Congress to pass the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act in 1971.
photo by @laurekimmel
Written by:
Alex Silgalis
Alex founded localfreshies.com® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.
