The Wild Horses of Oak Creek

I thought I would share with you the wild horses that are just up the road from me. There are over 100 of these horses wandering wild in the hills of Tehachapi. Sometimes called the Wild Horses of Oak Creek or the Tehachapi Mountain Horse. They are a definite type, they all look pretty much the same. Black to very dark brown with very limited markings. And are all just about the same size at 14hh. Different from Mustangs that can range from 13hh to 18hh, and come in a wide range of shapes and don’t forget colours.

You can see the Spanish influence in their roman noses, solidness, thick mane and tail. Like most wild horses they have sturdy legs with strong hooves. There is speculation that they bear a big dose of Morgan in their bloodlines, from breeders in the area several years ago. But sadly their true origin is unknown. 

They do not belong to the BLM but from what I understand a few people look over them. Keeping the herd healthy and making sure the land doesn’t get over grazed. At present there is a drought making things tough for the horses, a program was established to geld and adopt them out. 

Then to promote the availability of the wild horses a challenge was invented, very much like the Mustang makeover seen on TV. The Vaquero Trainers Challenge has just started with the final competition ending in October. I will be there with bells on, can’t wait to see the results of everyone’s hard work!

For more information on these awesome wild horses:
Oak Creek Wild Horses

Vaquero Heritage Trainers Challenge