In this photo taken Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017, horse carer Reinette van Niekerk interacts with a foal and mare at Kaapsehoop, South Africa. Wild horses, with their origins unknown, roam freely in the area attracting tourists to the town founded on gold mining well over a century ago. (AP Photo/Denis Farrell)
Republished November 03, 2017 - 7:28 AM
Original Publication Date November 03, 2017 - 4:36 AM
KAAPSEHOOP, South Africa - Wild horses roam freely in the South African village of Kaapsehoop, their origins unknown.
The town was founded on gold mining well over a century ago. Now both horses and history are tourist draws.
The horses roam along the Drakensburg escarpment, with its cool mountain climate offering sufficient grazing and water throughout the year.
Although tick-borne diseases take their toll, a major threat to the horses comes from humans. The creatures are often killed in accidents with speeding vehicles.
Though loyally protected by local residents, some of the horses still fall into abandoned mining pits. Others are poached for use in traditional medicines.
News from © The Associated Press, 2017