Caretakers euthanized an Outer Banks wild horse this weekend after he suffered a broken hind leg, most likely in a fight with other stallions.
The 11-year-old horse named Finn was spotted unable or unwilling to move after he was seen fighting with other horses Friday.
“Upon closer inspection, it was obvious that his leg was badly broken and under the direction of our veterinarian we captured him so that we could help end his suffering,” the Corolla Wild Horse Fund said in a Facebook post Sunday morning. “Finn’s injuries were completely in line with those commonly sustained from fighting, and there is no reason to believe he was injured by human means (hit by a vehicle, etc).”
Caretakers said the loss should serve as a reminder how dangerous the herd of about 100 wild horses roaming the northern Outer Banks can be.
“It’s breeding season and stallions absolutely do not care if you are in the way when they are fighting. You will get trampled, kicked, bit, or worse,” the Facebook post said.
Local law requires people to stay at least 50 feet away from the wild horses at all times. Fights can break out at any time, and the horses’ movements can be “unpredictable and quick.”
“While it is a devastating loss for those of us who cared for Finn and who will miss him dearly, what happened to him is nature in its most basic, wild, and unforgiving form,” the post said. “Finn died as wild as he was born; he lived a truly free life and that is something we should take comfort in. Please give these horses the respect they deserve — for their own safety and yours.”
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