Horsing around at Werribee Open Range Zoo
Asian wild horses are splashing through hot summer days by rolling and trotting in specially created mud wallows at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Asian wild horses are splashing through hot summer days by rolling and trotting in specially created mud wallows at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Typically shy, the endangered horses are going wild for cool water which streams out of a trough to form an oasis within their savannah home.
The tightly bonded herd usually huddle and watch keenly as water pools at their feet before curiosity inspires one horse to cheerfully dive in, triggering others to follow suit.
Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah coordinator Richard Roswell said the horses enjoy frolicking in the water as it keeps them cool on hot days and encourages play behaviour within the herd.
“The team at Werribee Open Range Zoo regularly set up mud wallows for the Asian wild horses and other Savannah animals to help them freshen up when temperatures are over 25°C,” Mr Roswell said.
“As social animals that graze, rest and play together, interacting with the water is very engaging for the herd and adds complexity to their environment.
“Rolling in the mud, water and dirt can also help with self-grooming, which wards off insects and helps to remove any parasites.”
Habitat conservation and breeding programs, such as the one at Werribee Open Range Zoo, has seen the number of Asian wild horses increase in the wild. Today, more than 1,200 Asian wild horses are now free ranging in Mongolia, China and Russia.
Asian wild horses are the last remaining wild horse species in the world and are characterised by their unique appearance - only growing to the size of a pony when fully mature. They have large heads, short necks, wide bodies and a reddish-brown coat with a pale belly. Just like their cousin, the Zebra, they boast erect manes and have long thick tails.
Visitors can see these majestic horses in action while on the Zoo’s free Safari Bus experience, which operates daily.
Zoos Victoria and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au. Zoos Victoria Members no longer need to book but are required to scan their Membership card for entry.