The old horse you see in this current news story was Maverick, the oldest wild horse on the Salt River. Today, his long and beautiful life came to an end.

While our hearts are heavy, we are also grateful. Maverick left the world the way he lived it—completely free and on his own terms. All wild horses should be so lucky.

This was his final public appearance. Standing quietly before the cameras, Maverick was making a point that’s not fully appreciated.

With no surviving foals this year, and an aging herd, Maverick is showing the world that the Salt River wild horse herd is already reducing itself.

Maverick is the answer.

He wasn’t rounded up. He wasn’t separated from his family. He spent his entire life where he belonged—where he gave people joy, where he reminded us of our wild west Arizona history. And when his time came, he left this world the way nature intended and leaves his body for wildlife to nurture.

The Salt River wild horse herd is growing older, and every year more beloved old horses like Maverick reach the end of their lives. The herd has a negative growth rate. Technically, all that is needed is a little patience and compassion.

Run free, sweet Maverick. Thank you for the joy you gave to the people of Arizona, and for the message you left behind with your final appearance.

You were loved by more people than you could ever know, and you will never be forgotten. ❤️
If Maverick touched your heart, please share his story. Help his final message reach the people who need to hear it. ❤️

Sincerely, SRWHMG.