In the vast expanses of southern Alberta, a dramatic and heartwarming rescue unfolded earlier this week, as members of the Help Alberta Wildies Society (HAWS) saved a young wild horse from a dire situation. This compelling story not only highlights the vulnerability of wildlife but also the incredible impact of human kindness and intervention in the natural world. The rescue took place near Sundre, Alta., an area north of Calgary known for its wild horse populations. Members of HAWS, an organization dedicated to the welfare of Alberta’s wild horses, were surveying the area for new foals when they stumbled upon a distressing scene: a young filly, hopelessly ensnared in a muddy bog. The situation was perilous, with the mud hole being two meters deep and fringed with ice, creating a trap from which the young horse couldn’t escape.
Darrell Glover, a spokesperson for HAWS, reflected on the gravity of the situation, noting, “Had we not come by at that particular time, she probably would not have survived the night.” This chance encounter turned into a race against time to save the young horse’s life. Glover’s observations indicated that the filly, about two years old, had been abandoned by her band, leaving her isolated and vulnerable. The rescue was a delicate operation, requiring nearly an hour of careful effort. The team utilized ropes attached to their ATVs, strategically wrapped around and under the filly, to gently extricate her from the treacherous mud.
This methodical and compassionate approach highlights the team’s dedication and expertise in handling such a sensitive situation.Once freed, the filly’s condition was a testament to her struggle: she was exhausted and ravenous, having consumed every bit of grass and weeds within her reach while trapped. Yet, in a touching display of trust and perhaps gratitude, she didn’t flee her rescuers. Instead, Glover recounted, she began grazing nearby, indicating a sense of comfort and recognition of the help she had received. Glover’s insights into the filly’s future are hopeful. While she may not reunite with her original band, there’s a good chance she’ll join a bachelor stallion, a common social structure among wild horses.
His optimism, “I think she’s going to be fine,” speaks volumes about the resilience of these majestic creatures and the successful outcome of the rescue. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by wildlife and the crucial role of conservation groups like HAWS. Their dedication to the well-being of Alberta’s wild horses not only ensures the survival of individual animals like this young filly but also contributes to the preservation of these magnificent creatures for future generations to admire and respect. Please have a look at the following video for more, and let us know your thoughts!