Before the American west was settled, Mustangs roamed free in larger numbers than any wild horse on Earth. They are living symbols of America's pioneer spirit.

The word “Mustang” is derived from the Spanish word “Mesteño” which translates to “stray or wild.” In the sixteenth century early Spanish explorers brought Andalusian horses to Mexico. As years passed many were left to run wild, migrating north to America’s open prairies. Through centuries of breeding and prospering these wild horses eventually became recognized as a distinct breed; the American Mustang. Mustangs have a dense bone structure due to the harsh conditions in which they live. They are smaller than typical domesticated horses with an average height of 15 hands or 60 inches tall. Mustangs can be found in essentially every equine color variation.

Wild Mustangs live in small bands or herds consisting of a lead stallion, a lead mare, a harem of mature mares, juveniles, and a number of less dominant males. The lead stallion defends the herd while the lead mare directs their movements. Males that are too young to attract females may join together in “bachelor herds” until they are old enough to join other herds or form their own true herd. In the presence of danger separate herds, including bachelor herds, may combine for protection.