A Wild Horse Tale-Baby’s First River Trip

The Salt River horses are lucky, in that they have a beautiful river to call home. Ample water and a place to cool down on hot days, it’s a big part of their lives.

This little filly was only a couple of days old, I showed you photos of her in this post, when she made her first river trip. We just happened to be at the river one afternoon when we saw her little band near the rivers edge.

She was so cute and tentative on the river rocks.

Momma went out a little ways in the shallow river to encourage her to head that way. She wasn’t in a big hurry though, and watched the egrets, and tasted the water for the first time.

Mom waited patiently, keeping a close eye on her.

She splashed the water a few times as if to say, it’s OK, just come towards me.

Slowly the little filly started inching her way towards her mom.

Such an interesting world for her to explore.

Mom watched intently, making sure she was doing ok. I think the egret may have been rooting for her too.

Finally, she arrived next to mom.

Mom congratulated her with a whinny, and a shake of her head.

Baby thought it was time for a celebratory drink, but mom said no, we have to keep going.

Mom rolled, and rolled in the sand when they got there. I’m sure it felt so good for her. Baby was a little unsure about all that though.

After a little rest, they continued across the second shallow channel to the other side.

Little miss with some mud lipstick. The river isn’t so bad she thought.

The family were all relaxing when suddenly another stallion and his little family showed up at the river. The band stallion noticed them right away and immediately headed back across the river to talk with this interloper.

You tell him dad!

Meanwhile, the lieutenant stallion moved to protect the band, and especially the new foal and mom. He actually made sure she got into the trees above the shore. (That’s him on the far left)

The white stallion and his family just wanted a drink and a splash, so they moved up river and peace was restored.

It was so amazing to watch this story unfold, and to be there for this foals first trip to the river. Horses are simply amazing animals, and watching their lives, and being a part of that is my very favorite thing to do.