Wild Mustangs - Wyoming

Wyoming is a land of untamed beauty, where the rugged landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. And amidst this vast wilderness roam the iconic wild mustangs, symbols of freedom and resilience. Photographing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an experience like no other. As a photographer, stepping into the world of wild mustangs in Wyoming is a journey that left me breathless and in awe.

Watching them interact within their herd, seeing the way they move with grace and power, you can't help but feel a deep respect for these magnificent animals.

The word mustang comes from the Spanish word, mustengo, which means “ownerless beast”. The American mustang originally came from the Spanish stock of horses that were brought to the Americas beginning in the 16th century.

Mustangs in the Big Horn Basin can be traced, via DNA, to these original Spanish horses. However, genetic diversity has occurred here as the result of introduction of other breeds to the gene pool. At least one McCullough Peaks horse tested as a descendant of horses owned by the Royal Family in England. Probably a relative of the horses they gave to Buffalo Bill when he toured England with his show the “Wild West”. Ranchers in the “before fences” era would allow their horses to graze with the Mustangs over the winter months. Locals tell stories of a round up to supply mounts for the U.S. Cavalry in World War I.

The McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Management Area (109,814 acres) is located East of Cody, WY.