In the vast, green landscapes of Dülmen, characterized by rolling hills and dense forests, we encounter horses that carry the legacy of ancient times – the wild horses in the Merfelder Bruch.
They are actually the last truly wild horses in Germany.
The Dülmen wild horses, often also called Dülmen horses, are not only a symbol of freedom and wildness, but also a living testimony to German natural history.
Near Dülmen in North Rhine-Westphalia, they live in a semi-wild state and are today a living testimony to a time when wild horses roamed throughout Europe.
While many of their fellow horses were domesticated or simply disappeared over the centuries, the Dülmen wild horses have retained their wild essence to this day.
With their robust stature, powerful legs and characteristic, soft colors ranging from gray to dun, they embody the very special aesthetic of Dülmen's wild horses.
These wild horses are not only a sight of breathtaking beauty, but also a testament to the adaptability and will to survive of this very special breed of horse.
The lifestyle of the Dülmen wild horses
The Dülmen Wild Horses live in a semi-wild state , roaming open landscapes in herds. Characterized by strong social bonds, each herd is led by a dominant stallion .
Their days are filled with foraging, social interactions, and rest periods. Their ability to survive in Dülmen's harsh environment demonstrates their impressive adaptability and resilience .
These horses belong to the Duke of Croÿ , a noble family with a long tradition in Europe, who takes care of their preservation and care.
They were first mentioned in documents in the 14th century , which underlines their deep connection to the region and their historical significance for the Dülmen region.
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Order nowWild horses in Germany: The history of wild horses
The roots of the Dülmen wild horses go back thousands of years. It is believed that their ancestors, the Tarpan horses , roamed the European plains during the Ice Age.
With the advance of civilization and the change of landscapes, these horses found themselves in isolated wild areas.
The Dülmen Forest was established as a sanctuary for these horses in the 19th century , laying the foundation for the preservation of this impressive breed .
What is the Merfelder Bruch nature reserve?
The Merfelder Bruch nature reserve , home of the Dülmen wild horse track, is located in the western part of North Rhine-Westphalia, near the town of Dülmen.
It is a unique biotope in Germany .
Covering an area of approximately 350 hectares, it offers the Dülmen wild horses an ideal habitat. Here, they can live freely in their natural environment, protected yet wild .
The area is characterized by
- Grasslands,
- Moors and ponds,
- which provide the horses with food and shelter.
It is not only a refuge for the Merfelder Bruch wild horses , but also a place where visitors have the opportunity to observe these fascinating animals in their natural environment.
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Wild Horse Tram: Opening Hours and Prices
The wild horse track in Merfelder Bruch is a special place where visitors have the opportunity to observe the Dülmen wild horses in their natural environment.
It is a large area that was specially designed to provide the horses with enough space while also giving people an insight into the lives of these impressive animals.
Annual events such as the wild horse capture also take place here.
The exact opening hours and prices of the horse-drawn tram in Merfelder Bruch vary depending on the season and event, so it is advisable to check the official website or the tourist information office before visiting.
Wild horse capture and conservation of the Dülmen wild horses
The conservation of the Dülmen wild horses is the focus of numerous efforts. One of the key measures is the annual wild horse capture .
At this event, young stallions are captured from the herd and later auctioned.
The auction does not primarily serve to provide financial support for conservation projects, but also ensures that these stallions end up in responsible hands where they are kept in a species-appropriate manner.
In addition to capturing wild horses, regular health checks and monitoring are carried out to ensure the vitality of the herd.
Why is catching so important?
Catching the young stallions has several crucial advantages for the health and well-being of the Dülmen wild horses.
It minimizes the risk of dominance fights within the herd, which can often lead to serious injuries. Furthermore, capturing horses prevents inbreeding , which is essential for maintaining the genetic diversity of the horses.
The catching itself takes place in an environment that is as stress-free as possible, with the horses being carefully guided into a confined area.
This process requires skill and experience to ensure the horses are not traumatized during the procedure. It's a balancing act that strives to best protect the animals and preserve their natural habitat.
Care, health and illnesses
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Care: The Dülmen wild horses, although living in a semi-wild state , are not completely exempt from human care.
Their hooves are checked regularly to ensure they have no injuries or wear that could impair their mobility. They are also monitored by experts to ensure they are in top condition.
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Health: The Dülmen wild horses are a testament to the power of nature . Their robust constitution, shaped by centuries of life in the wild, makes them resistant to many common equine diseases.
Their natural lifestyle, where they move freely and eat a variety of grasses and herbs , contributes to their overall health and vitality.
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Diseases: Despite their robustness, the Dülmen wild horses are not immune to disease. They can suffer from conditions such as diarrhea, laminitis, or mud fever .
When such diseases occur, it is of utmost importance to detect them early and have them treated professionally.
In such cases, the right care product can make a difference.
The Pferdegold Skin & Coat Spray supports the skin and coat with nourishing oils .
It contains natural extracts of chamomile and calendula , as well as natural lavender oil. Pferdegold Skin & Coat is formulated to support the skin and coat with soothing oils and herbs.
Pferdegold® Skin & Coat
The Pferdegold Skin and Coat dietary supplement provides your horse with all the essential nutrients to support the regeneration of hooves, coat, and skin, making it easier for your horse to get through the shedding period. A balanced supply of nutrients can help support your horse's daily diet.
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Conclusion
The Dülmen wild horses are an impressive example of the adaptability and strength of nature.
In the landscapes of Dülmen, they represent not only a piece of German history, but also the unadulterated wildness and beauty of the horse world.
Their robust health and unique behavior make them a fascinating creature and a true treasure for horse lovers.
At Pferdegold, we value the importance of such wild horses and are proud to offer products that can support the well-being of all horses.
The Dülmen wild horses remind us why it is so important to care for and protect nature.
FAQ
When is the annual Dülmen wild horse capture?
The annual Dülmen Wild Horse Capture traditionally takes place on the last Saturday in May. It is a significant event in which young stallions are captured from the herd and later auctioned off.
This ritual not only has cultural significance, but also plays an important role in the conservation and management of the Dülmen wild horse population.
How much does a Dülmen wild horse cost?
Prices for a Dülmen wild horse can vary depending on age, health, and other factors. Typically, the young stallions captured during the annual wild horse roundup are auctioned off.
Prices at these auctions can fluctuate greatly depending on demand and the specific characteristics of the horse. It's best to contact the relevant authorities or wild horse capture organizers directly for up-to-date pricing information.
