HAPPY 31st BIRTHDAY, CLOUD!
On his 20th Birthday… by Photographer Kristen Collett ©
His Wild Spirit Lives On…
On May 29, 1995, a pale colt was born on the rugged slopes of the Pryor Mountains Wild Horse Range. Few could have imagined that this young wild horse would one day inspire millions of people around the world and become a symbol of freedom, family, resilience, and the enduring spirit of America's wild horses.
That colt was Cloud.
As we celebrate what would have been Cloud's 31st birthday, we find ourselves reflecting not only on the remarkable life he lived, but on the extraordinary legacy he left behind.
Through the lens of Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and Cloud Foundation founder Ginger Kathrens, people around the world were invited into Cloud's world. Viewers watched him grow from a curious foal into a powerful band stallion, witnessed his challenges and triumphs, and came to know the complex family bonds and social lives of wild horses in a way few had before.
Cloud's story changed hearts.
For many supporters of The Cloud Foundation, Cloud was their first introduction to America's wild horses and burros. Through his story, people discovered the beauty of family bands, the importance of freedom, and the ongoing challenges facing wild horses on our public lands.
This year also happens to be the Year of the Fire Horse—a symbol associated with courage, passion, independence, and an untamed spirit. Those who knew Cloud's story can recognize those qualities immediately. He was bold. He was determined. He was fiercely protective of his family. And even through injury, loss, and adversity, he persevered.
Though Cloud passed away in 2016, his legacy continues to run wild.
His descendants still roam the Pryor Mountains. His story continues to inspire new generations. And the movement he helped create remains committed to protecting America's wild horses and burros and preserving the freedom that defined his life.
Happy Birthday, Cloud.
Thank you for showing us why wild horses matter. 💛
Cloud's story touched countless lives, but it began with one remarkable connection between a wild stallion and a filmmaker determined to share his world. In honor of Cloud's birthday, we're sharing this special throwback video from Ginger Kathrens.
