NORTH DAKOTA BADLANDS HORSE

REMEMBERING BLAZE

Blaze, the magnificent stallion of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, has died. 

​Blaze acquired a band in 2008, running in the area along the north fence east of Sheep Butte and the interior south of there. He was always very animated so easily became a favorite to visitors who thought of him as the picture of wildness. His blue eye on the left also made him more distinctive and photogenic.

On March 19th, 2017, he valiantly attempted to defend his harem against much younger stallions. After some unknown ruckus, and he disappeared along with some of his mares, we were hopeful he was alive. When most of his mares turned up with Vamoose hanging around the outskirts of the band our hearts sank. 

Followers of the horses and those who loved Blaze searched all weekend to no avail, but until he was found by a gentleman who was helping in the search this week. Deb Carson and Marylu were able to confirm Blaze’s identity. 

Based on the location and circumstance surrounding his final resting place, we believe that he fought for his mares until his last moment and died quickly in a terrible accident. 

It is suffice it to say that he went down doing what a valiant wild stallion does to protect his family. His legacy will live on in his fillies and colts and he will always be remembered in the hearts of people all over the world.

Blaze has truly left hoofprints on the hearts of all those who loved and admired him. May he rest in peace in the green pastures of heaven.💔