Wild horses in Dülmen

Steam rises from their bodies; they move with alert yet relaxed grace – anyone who catches their first glimpse of the wild horses in early spring, in the early morning, will not forget the sight in a hurry. The wild horses live in the Merfelder Bruch near Dülmen all year round. For ages now, here on the estate of the Duke of Croy, there has been awild horse reserve where up to 400 animals can roam largely freely.

The nature reserve, which covers approximately 3.2 square kilometres, is characterised by its highly varied vegetation: oak and coniferous forests alternate with pastures, heathland and birch thickets. This provides the wild horses with exactly the varied habitat they need – with as little human intervention as possible. Humans do not intervene in cases of illness or births, and supplementary feeding is only provided in certain areas during harsh winters. As a result, a resilient herd has emerged, which is now regarded as Europe’s last herd of wild horses.

To ensure the survival of the Dülmen wild horses, a wild horse round-up takes place once a year. To prevent territorial fights amongst the stallions, those that reach sexual maturity at one year of age are caught and auctioned off. An incredible spectacle!