We have been very closely monitoring one of the oldest horses in the herd, a stallion named Flint, since early last spring. We believe he is in his 30s, and over the last nine months or so he’s been slowing down and showing signs that he is approaching the end of his life. While he’s lost a significant amount of weight (typical for a wild horse his age), he has been moving around his territory like normal, grazing, and otherwise behaving as he always has – just a bit slower.
Our veterinarian was regularly updated on his condition through the spring and summer, and we continue to have weekly (if not more often) discussions about him. We do not want him to suffer, but we also do not want to prematurely interfere with the natural cycle of life. Right now the weather is very nice and there is still plenty to eat, so we see no reason to intervene as long as Flint continues to behave normally. This could change at any time and we are prepared to intervene immediately should our veterinarian and herd management team determine that is the right course of action.
Flint was a prolific stallion when he was in his prime, siring many foals including some names you may be familiar with – Taco, Danny, Sebastian, Obi-Wan (formerly known as William), Finn, Cadiz, and possibly Ocean Pearl. He’s also very closely related to many of the mares that were taken to Dews Island in 1999, including Brownie, Bella, Moxie, and Luna. His bloodlines are old and extremely valuable. Because of his age it is unlikely we will ever know for sure who his parents were, which means he is a foundation stallion for the Corolla herd. That is quite an esteemed honor.
Our goal is for each and every Corolla Banker to live wild and free, and that means we must also do our best to ensure they die wild and free. A long, well-lived life is something to celebrate and Flint has certainly accomplished that. We will continue to monitor him closely and will do what is best from both a wildlife management and veterinary perspective. We appreciate everyone’s concern for Flint’s well-being, as well as your trust in us to do what is best for him.