Wild Horses of Shannon County, Missouri

Shannon County, Missouri, is home to remarkable herds of wild horses roaming freely within the Ozark National Scenic Riverways—America’s first national park dedicated to protecting a river system. Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, this is the only place in the state where wild horses still run wild and untamed.

Yet, despite their beauty and historical significance, many Missourians are unaware of their existence. Over the past century, Missouri’s wild horses have faced numerous threats, and their future remains uncertain. It would be naive to assume that circumstances couldn’t change again, placing them at risk again. You can read more about their history.

As a conservationist, my mission is to protect Missouri’s wild horses and inspire others to join me in ensuring their survival.

Awareness is our most powerful tool—people protect what they love. Through my videos and photography, I strive to capture their untamed spirit, resilience, and deep connection to the land. By sharing their world, I hope to foster a lasting commitment to their preservation for future generations.

(1957) Broadfoot Mare in Heaven 04/25/2021 by Tim Layton | © Tim Layton Fine Art, All Rights Reserved, 2021 | timlaytonfineart.com
(1957) Broadfoot Mare in Heaven 04/25/2021 by Tim Layton | © Tim Layton Fine Art, All Rights Reserved, 2021 | timlaytonfineart.com

Being a wild horse conservation photographer is a role I embrace with profound respect and responsibility. It’s not merely about creating art; it’s about lending a voice to the voiceless, illuminating the delicate interplay of nature, and igniting a call to action through a carefully crafted awareness narrative. Through my lens, I aim to stir emotions and provoke thought, urging viewers to see not just the image but the story and significance it holds.

Each photograph or video is a window into the world of these magnificent beings, revealing how they mirror our humanity in their social structures, relationships, and instinctive wisdom. Their untold stories, often overshadowed by human progress, remind us of our shared history and the critical need for ecological and cultural preservation.

Learn more about the history, law, and Missouri Wild Horse League.

You can learn more about the history, law, and the Missouri Wild Horse League.