Colorado’s majestic mustangs offer a sense of wonderment and awe, roaming free on wild lands not found in many other places. Take in the flowing manes, the muscular shoulders, and the ease with which they move along in stride with one another. Jewelry designer and owner of Mauzie's Fine Jewelry, Mauzie Mays spends many weekends close to these fantastic creatures.
Mays volunteers with the Serengeti Foundation, founded in 1997 by Bert von Roemer, to protect threatened mustangs and their habitats. The foundation's work in Colorado includes protection, sanctuary, advocacy, and working with all interested parties to achieve a balanced solution.
Serengeti focuses on balanced ecosystems in which all creatures who occupy the habitat have a vital and irreplaceable role.
“We have restored the freedom of more than 250 high-risk mustangs and burros, primarily seniors and those with temperament concerns. They now live a hands-off life in a dynamic herd setting, free to roam, graze, and socialize. They are re-wilded on a vast landscape within our sanctuary borders and live as free as ethically possible,” says Holly Myers, Serengeti’s director of Wildlife and Community Projects.
“We focus primarily on those with nowhere else to go. Many are deeply traumatized and are highly fearful and reactive of people. The horse’s well-being is prioritized by providing a refuge away from the public.”
Mays was drawn to the Serengeti Foundation, inspired by its mission and passion. “I’m captivated by the horses’ resilience, strength, and remarkable capacity for forgiveness. Their sheer beauty and spirit are absolutely awe-inspiring," Mays says.
Horses are naturally inquisitive, curious, and intelligent animals. In fact, early humans were able to domesticate horses due to these character traits. Mustangs are curious about humans, and while some are too skittish and fearful to get close, others can form bonds with specific individuals.
Myers praises May' work with the horses. “Sinatra, Mira, and Pete, for a brief time, experienced a taste of human kindness before being subjected to abuse and starvation. That experience with kindness, combined with Mauzie’s gentle heart and respect for their autonomy, has given them the sense that she is safe. Several of our herd members take comfort in her presence; it's heartwarming to see."
Mays' work includes navigating the vast terrain to photograph the horses and document their condition, progress, and general locations within the sanctuary.
For those of us who’ve only seen these wild horses in photographs or videos, Mays says, “These creatures are truly majestic—strong, gentle, sometimes skittish, but always remarkable. The first time I watched a band of about 25 running over the hills, coming close to check on us, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. I had never witnessed such powerful grace. Each horse weaves around the others, finding its place in the line; you can see their manes flowing in the wind, hear their whinnies, and feel their strength—all while reminding you they are still wild. They command respect, and they truly deserve it.”
If there is one thing that both Mays and the Serengeti Foundation want people to know, it is that education is the best way to support these amazing animals.
“There are many perspectives on the issues surrounding land and wild mustangs; learning and listening are essential in a balanced approach to their protection,” Mays says. “Beyond education, sanctuaries rely heavily on public support.”
If you’re curious to learn more, explore the topic further and consider contributing, even in a small way, at serengetifoundation.com.
You can also support the foundation in December while shopping for the holidays. Mauzie will donate……
These creatures are truly majestic—strong, gentle, sometimes skittish, but always remarkable.