Running Free - A Wild Horse Tale

Wild Horse Tutorial - Module 2

Module 2 - Herd Structure

Herd Structure

Wild horse herd structure is similar to a small family, typically called a band or family band. The band consists of the band stallion, his group of mares, and their offspring (foals and yearlings). A stallion's group of mares is called his harem. A stallion's harem typically ranges from one to eight mares, but can range up to 20 mares.

The band stallion is the protector of the band. It is his responsibility to protect his family from predators; warn when danger is approaching; ward and/or fight off other rival stallions; mate with his mares; and discipline any family members that get out of line or stray too far from the band.

The lead or alpha mare is usually an older and the most experienced mare in the band. Her duties include finding and leading the band to grazing areas and water; leading the band away from danger while the band stallion protects from behind; and typically the boss of the band day-to-day.

Photo Courtesy of Alvis Upitis © 2003

Mating and Fighting

The band stallion mates with all of his mares. Mares only mate with the band stallion, unless another rival stallion has snuck in to mate. Eleven months later the mares are ready to give birth, usually during the spring. The mares leave the band to give birth. After one hour from birth, the foal is ready to stand with its mother. After two hours, the foal is ready to run and keep up with the band. At this time, the mare and her foal return to the band.

When a filly is sexually mature (yearling or older), her father, the band stallion will run her away from the band. It won't take long for her to be taken up by another band stallion.

When a colt is sexually mature (two plus years old), his father will also run him off from the band. He then will join what's called a bachelor band. This is a band of colts and stallions which do not have a harem of their own. The bands size ranges from two to twelve males. The males spend their days play fighting in preparation for winning mares of their own, eating, and sleeping. Play fighting, also known as mock fighting, is a great way for young colts and stallions to learn the skills necessary when confronting a band stallion to win mares.

Stallions fight to win mares, grazing land, and water hole rights. The stallions try to avoid dangerous battles with show and stature, but sometimes a heated battle does ensue. Scars are visible on most older stallions, telltale signs of many battles. The winner takes all. Bachelor bands can be dangerous to band stallions. While one stallion fights with the band stallion, another will make off with the mares.

Photo Courtesy of The Mustang © 1997

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What do you call a horse?

Stallion - a male horse of sexual maturity (more than four years old) used for breeding.

Mare - a female horse more than four years old.

Foal - a male or female horse less than one year old.

Yearling - a male or female horse greater than one year old, but less than two years old.

Filly - a female horse less than four years old.

Colt - a male horse less than four years old.