Remembering Lainey The Salt River Wild Horse Filly Foal
Lainey’s Brief But Memorable Life
Although her life was short, a little filly foal affectionally named Lainey brought joy and excitement to photographers like me who were lucky enough to witness her bravery and spirit in the rugged Arizona desert environment she briefly roamed. Born in November 2024, Lainey was a member of the famous Salt River Wild horse herd. She was bundle of energy—curious, playful, and always sticking close to her mother (Nichy) and dad (Luna) particularly when they were crossing the river in the lower Salt River recreation area near Mesa, Arizona. At times watching Lainey cross the river be could be a little nerve wracking as the currents and depth of the river in places looked a little dangerous for a new born foal to negotiate safely. But, she always forded the river successfully and fearlessly when I was out capturing photos and video footage of her. I don’t think her dad liked me much, a Stallion named Luna, as he was always giving me dirty looks as he escorted his daughter across the river , but that’s Ok…
Sadly, Lainey’s time in the wild came to an end in late February 2025, when she fell prey to mountain lions—an ever-present danger for young foals in their 20,000 acre range in the Tonto National Forest. I certainly don’t have any hard feelings towards the Mountain lions, they were just doing what is in their nature as top and wild predators in this desert ecosystem. And from what I have researched, Lainey is certainly not the first Salt River foal to be killed by mountain lions over the last few years.
Though her life was brief, Lainey’s spirit lives on in the memories of those who watched her grow and in the images that preserve her story. Her journey is a testament to the delicate balance of nature, where survival is never guaranteed, but every moment is filled with meaning.
Below I will share some of my favorite photos and video clips of Lainey as a tribute to the adventurous spirit she displayed in her brief but beautiful life. I am particularly going to miss seeing her crossing the river at sunrise time with her band and parents…
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Short video of the Filly Foal “Lainey” crossing the Salt river with her parents. Please subscribe to my new Youtube channel to see more videos like this.
Lainey nursing with her mom, Nichy.
Lainey being escorted by her Dad at sunrise time along the Salt River.
Lainey and her Dad Luna making an early morning river crossing.
Lainey making an early morning crossing with her mom and dad nearby.
Lainey heading down to the river bank at sunset time with her parents.
Another very early morning crossing with Lainey’s mom in the lead.