Mustang

Sometimes referred to as the American Feral Horse, the Mustang breed is found wild in the western United States.  Mustang is from a Spanish word, "mesteno" which means "wild" or "Stray".  Mustangs were originally Spanish horses, but over the years and due to their roaming qualities, they have now become a mix of several breeds.  European settlers brought their own horses into the west; Indian raids and freed wild stallions tore down domestic fences and joined the tamed horses; and Indians captured horses between tribes and bartered which contributed to the distribution of Mustang horses and mix of breeding.

The United States government purchased 150 horses from Germany every year for 10 years between the 1800's and 1900's. The East Friesian horse was a heavy warmblood that could pull heavy wagons and artillery- but some escaped and their blood was mixed with the Wild Mustangs of the west.

The herds of Mustangs started to cause problems when the western United states became settled and the land was needed for cattle to graze.  Some mustangs were shot to the point that the population was cut in half by 1926.  A Wild Free Roaming Horse and Burro Act was passed by Congress in 1971 that helps protect these horses.  The population of Mustangs grew again, until they were too numerous once again.  The Adopt-a-Horse program in 1973 began in Montana to help distribute excess Mustangs in a humane way.  Individuals can adopt a horse for $125 provided they meet certain requirements.  The government actually owns the adopted horses for a year after adoptions, until a veterinarian statement is produced to show the horse is under good care.

Most Mustang horses are warmbloods, and the coat colors can be any colors found on horses.  Some still exhibit Spanish characteristics despite that blood being very diluted in the breed.