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Viva La Bronco! Life with Wild Horses Ruidoso New Mexco. Yes!

Ruidoso, New Mexico is home to a large herd of wild horses that roam the nearby mountains and forests. These majestic creatures are a beloved part of the local culture and are a popular attraction for visitors to the area.

The wild horses in Ruidoso are descendants of horses brought to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Over the centuries, these horses have adapted to the rugged terrain and harsh conditions of the Southwest and have become an iconic symbol of the region's beauty and wilderness.

Visitors to Ruidoso can often spot the wild horses from the road or while hiking in the surrounding mountains. With their powerful bodies and flowing manes, these horses are a breathtaking sight and a true symbol of the area's wild beauty.

It's important to remember that the wild horses are just that – wild. Visitors should always give them plenty of space and not approach them too closely, as this can be dangerous for both the horses and the people.

Despite their wild nature, the wild horses of Ruidoso have a special place in the hearts of the local people and visitors alike. Whether you're watching them graze in a meadow, running through the forest, or simply admiring them from a distance, these horses are a true wonder of the natural world and an unforgettable part of the Ruidoso experience.


There are likely several advocacy groups in Ruidoso, New Mexico dedicated to the preservation and protection of the wild horses that call the area home. These organizations work to ensure that the wild horses have sufficient food, water, and habitat, and that they are protected from harm. They also work to educate the public about the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures and their role in the region's history and culture.

Some of the wild horse advocacy groups in Ruidoso may focus on specific aspects of horse conservation, such as habitat preservation, research, or veterinary care. Others may be more broadly focused on advocacy and education, working to raise awareness about the importance of protecting these wild horses and the challenges they face.

Regardless of their specific focus, all wild horse advocacy groups in Ruidoso share a common goal: to ensure the survival and well-being of the wild horses and to preserve this magnificent symbol of the region's beauty and wilderness for future generations to enjoy.


In New Mexico, wild horses are protected under state and federal law. The state recognizes wild horses as a valuable natural resource and considers them to be part of the state's cultural heritage.

Under state law, wild horses are considered to be wildlife and are protected from harassment, harm, or capture. This means that it is illegal to harm, capture, or kill a wild horse.

In addition to state law, wild horses in New Mexico are also protected under the Federal Wild and Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971. This act recognizes wild horses and burros as "living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West" and requires that the Secretary of the Interior protect and manage them as part of the public lands.


It's important to remember that wild horses are protected by law and should not be harmed or captured without a permit. Anyone who encounters a wild horse should give it plenty of space and treat it with respect, as it is a valuable and protected part of New Mexico's natural heritage.


A wild horse herd refers to a group of wild horses that live and roam together in a specific area. Wild horse herds can be found in several regions around the world, including the Western United States, Canada, and Australia.

Each wild horse herd has its own unique characteristics and behaviors, shaped by the environment in which they live and the historical events that have impacted their population. For example, wild horse herds in the Western United States may have distinct coat colors or patterns, as well as different behaviors or social structures, due to the influence of Spanish colonial horses brought to the Americas by conquistadors in the 16th century.

Wild horse herds play an important role in the ecosystems in which they live. They help to maintain the balance of plant and animal populations, and their grazing and trampling behavior can create new habitats for other species. Wild horse herds also have cultural and historical significance, as they are often seen as symbols of the West and of the spirit of freedom and independence.

However, wild horse herds can also face challenges, such as habitat loss, overgrazing, and competition with other wildlife and livestock. It is important to manage wild horse populations in a way that promotes their health and well-being, while also balancing their impact on the environment and other species.


Yes, Ruidoso is indeed unique in that it has a wild horse herd that roams within the village limits. This is relatively rare and sets Ruidoso apart from many other communities in the region.

The presence of wild horses within the village provides a special connection to the region's natural beauty and wildlife, and adds to the charm and character of the area. The wild horses are a beloved part of the local culture and are a source of pride for the residents of Ruidoso.

Visitors to Ruidoso can often spot the wild horses as they roam through the village or in the surrounding hills and forests. They are a beautiful and inspiring sight, and a testament to the area's rich natural heritage.

It's important to remember that the wild horses in Ruidoso are still wild animals, and visitors should always give them plenty of space and not approach them too closely. This helps to protect both the horses and people, and ensures that the wild horses continue to roam freely and thrive in the area.


Yes, it is true that the wild horses in Ruidoso often cross roads and the public is encouraged to be cautious and look out for them. Because the wild horses are free-roaming, they are not confined to any specific area and may cross roads or other areas of human activity.

It is important for drivers in Ruidoso to be aware of the presence of wild horses and to drive carefully, especially in areas where wild horses are known to cross. This helps to ensure the safety of both the horses and people.

In addition to being cautious while driving, the public is also encouraged to be mindful of the wild horses when hiking, camping, or enjoying other outdoor activities in the area. This helps to minimize human impact on the horses and their habitat, and ensures that they are able to continue to thrive in their natural environment.

Overall, the wild horses in Ruidoso are a beloved and valued part of the community, and the public is encouraged to take steps to protect them and ensure their continued health and well-being.


Yes, the wild horses in Ruidoso are generally known to be gentle animals, but it's important to remember that they are still wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect.

While wild horses in Ruidoso may be habituated to human presence to some extent, they can still become frightened or defensive if they feel threatened. It's important to give them plenty of space and not approach them too closely, as this can put both people and horses at risk.

In addition to being gentle, the wild horses in Ruidoso are also known for their beauty and grace. They are a unique and treasured part of the local wildlife and are a source of pride for the community.

Visitors to Ruidoso have the opportunity to observe the wild horses in their natural habitat and appreciate their beauty and wildness. By respecting their wild nature and being mindful of their presence, visitors can help to protect the wild horses and ensure their continued well-being in the area.

The Alto Band Alto Lakes New Mexico Ruidoso NM

The band free-roaming grazing in the morning sunlight

Wild Hores poses for a picture

The Alto Band crossing

Blaze the Stallion crosses the Rio Bonito fresh river snow run off.

Local Resident Josh Van Tussenbroek observing the Wild horses in his hometown of Ruidoso, New Mexico.






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