Meet the Mustangs: Rapunzel - A Journey of Wild Beauty
By Deb Sutherland, Volunteer
Meet Rapunzel, a wild mustang born on March 16, 2014, whose life story is as enchanting as her name suggests. From her first steps in a field near my home to her adventures with her family band, Rapunzel's journey is a testament to the beauty and resilience of wild horses.
On a drive home, I witnessed Ginger Snap, also known as Aurora, giving birth. With camera in hand, I captured the moment Rapunzel stood up, her mane appearing as flowing silver and blond hair, earning her the name Rapunzel.
Rapunzel is the fifth foal of Bodie and Ginger Snap. After untangling herself, she stood beside her mother, creating a picturesque scene of two beautiful bookends. They were inseparable, often seen side-by-side, earning them the title of the two prettiest ladies in the canyon.
For over a decade, I have been photographing Bodie and his family band. I have known all of Ginger Snap and Bodie's foals, starting with their first. Ginger Snap's lineage includes Skydancer and Windsong. After Skydancer's disappearance, Windsong, pregnant with Ginger Snap, joined Bodie's family, and Ginger Snap eventually became one of Bodie's mares.
Rapunzel has seven full siblings, but only she and her sister, Aurora's Princess, remain. Growing up, her best friend was Steener (aka Prince), her half-brother, born just weeks apart. They, along with their older half-siblings Spats and Sandra, were a familiar sight running through the canyon.
Rapunzel has many half-siblings and remains with her three half-sisters, Sandra, Spats, and Sunday. I've known them since birth. Sandra and Spats are daughters of Pinkie and Bodie, while Sunday is the last daughter of Momma Mia and Bodie, making her Prince Steener's full younger sister. The sisters have endured several stallion changes but have stayed together.
After Bodie's disappearance, they lived with Goldie, Shaggy, Tank, and Flashy, until Flashy secured the band after a three-year battle. Now, Flashy shares the band with Midnight, and while changes continue, the sisters remain united.
Rapunzel has needed rescue several times, and I once helped reunite her with her band. She has given birth to three foals: Princess Mitten, Cricket, and Paddy. Spending New Year's Eve 2020 with Rapunzel and her sisters was a memorable way to welcome the new year. I am grateful for the efforts of those who protect wild horses, ensuring Rapunzel and many others continue to thrive in the wild.