In awe of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and its feral horses

The North Dakota Badlands conjure up images of outlaws, cowboys and pioneers galloping across an expansive, rugged landscape. But the true star here is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This place embodies the spirit of the Wild West and showcases the region’s natural beauty. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing park and meet some of its residents, including the stars of this week’s jigsaw puzzle—the feral horses of North Dakota.

About Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Congress established Theodore Roosevelt National Park on November 10, 1978 in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt. As a young man, Roosevelt spent several years ranching and hunting in what is now known as the park. His time here greatly influenced his later conservation efforts and policies as president.

The feral horses of North Dakota

One of the most iconic sights in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is its population of feral horses. These North Dakota descendants of domesticated horses have lived in the park for centuries. They’ve also adapted to the harsh landscape and climate. The horses roam freely through the park, grazing on prairie grasses and drinking from streams.

There are currently about 200 feral horses roaming Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The National Park Service began to question the presence of feral horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park in late 2022. However, in April of this year, the National Park Service halted its plan to remove the horses after receiving backlash from both local residents and visitors.

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Other wildlife in the park

The feral horses may be the most famous residents of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, but they aren’t alone. The park is also home to bison, elk, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and a variety of bird species. These animals live throughout the park, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Dakota Prairie Grasslands

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is not the only protected area in North Dakota. The park is actually part of a larger ecosystem known as the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, which covers over 1 million acres of land. This vast grassland contains diverse habitats and provides important habitat for many species of plants and animals.

Roosevelt ranched here

Theodore Roosevelt famously said, “I have always said I would not have been President had it not been for my experience in North Dakota.”  His experiences here greatly influenced his conservation policies and love for the American West. Today, the park honors Roosevelt’s time here with a historic ranch site within the park.

Final thoughts and looking ahead

It’s clear this remarkable destination is more than just a beautiful landscape. It is also a living tribute to Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation legacy. From its unique historical significance as the only national park named after a single person to its pivotal role in preserving the vast Dakota Prairie Grasslands, the park offers an unparalleled glimpse into America’s natural and cultural heritage. Come back next week when the Friday Morning Puzzle Post will explore Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park.

Did you miss last week’s Friday Morning Post and jigsaw puzzle? If you did, you can use this link to view Mesmerized by the Synchronous Firefly of the Great Smoky Mountains now. If you want to check out all my posts and puzzles, click here. 

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