Ep 9. Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies

In the twentieth season of the Nature series, episode nine titled Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies, the audience is taken on a captivating journey through the Rocky Mountains in a search for a wild stallion named Cloud. This magnificent stallion, with his distinctive blue eyes, has become somewhat of a celebrity due to his breathtaking beauty and his unique behavior.

The episode explains how Cloud's life has been documented by Emmy-winning filmmaker Ginger Kathrens, who has followed him since he was a foal. Kathrens has an in-depth understanding of how wild stallions can form strong bonds with their mares and their offspring and how they can navigate tough terrain, harsh environments, and even rival stallions to protect their herds.

The audience is first introduced to Cloud as a young colt, and it is evident that he is destined for greatness. His strong nature, his courage, and his stunning looks make him stand out from the other horses. The episode then goes on to show how he navigates the rugged terrain of the Rockies, manages to find mates and protect his family while fighting off rival stallions.

Viewers get a glimpse into the lives of Cloud's herd, including his mares and offspring. The episode details how the stallion's offspring learn from him and how they grow to become strong and independent. It shows the herd's bond, their interactions with each other, and how they navigate through difficult terrain, from navigating mountain passes to foraging for food in winter's deep snows.

The documentary is also peppered with interviews from key players involved in Cloud's life, providing valuable insights into the behaviors and lives of wild stallions. Through these interviews, the audience learns the similarities between human civilization and a wild herd of horses.

As Cloud grows older, Kathrens and her team experience and document Cloud's changing behavior, as his once-loyal herd must be disbanded to make room for newer young stallions. The young stallions are aggressive and fight ruthlessly, making it impossible to merge older stallions into their herd.

The film captures the delicate balance between aggression and compassion, showcasing both the beauty and brutality of life in the wild. The in-depth footage allows the audience to witness Cloud's experiences and see firsthand how he deals with these trials and tribulations, emotionally and physically.

‘Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies’ is a stunning visual feast, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of the Rockies, the vibrancy of the wildlife and the raw beauty of the wild horses. The episode provides a unique vantage point on the lives and struggles of these magnificent animals and their relationships with each other.

Watching the episode, one can’t help but feel a sense of awe and respect for Cloud and all animals living in the wild. The episode shows how the wild horses fight to survive in an increasingly human-dominated world and showcases the beauty of these creatures as they move across the rocky landscape.

As the documentary draws to a close, the audience is left with both a sense of heartbreak and hope for the future of these beautiful animals. The episode provides a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving the natural world and the lives of its inhabitants.

‘Cloud: Wild Stallion of the Rockies’ serves as a remarkable example of the beauty and brutality of life in the wild. It is a must-watch for anyone who has ever been captivated by the wild and the animals that call it their home.