Black and White Wildlife Photography | Stunning Wall Art
Elephant Family Addo Study 2.jpg

African Wildlife Photography Blog

"Delaney Fine Art | Exploring African Adventures & Wildlife Photography Insights

Delve into the enthralling world of Delaney Fine Art's African adventures, where the artistry of wildlife photography comes to life. Our blog offers an immersive experience with captivating narratives and stunning visuals, unveiling the essence of Africa's untamed beauty. Join us on an insightful journey through diverse landscapes, encountering majestic creatures and witnessing the art and passion behind fine-art wildlife photography. Discover unique perspectives and exclusive insights that showcase the raw splendour of Africa's wildlife, bringing you closer to the heart of our adventures."

Photographer’s Stories Behind The Print

Delaney Fine Art | Art That Speaks To The Soul

 

Wild Horses Of Rooisands

Wild horses of Rooisands

Wild Horses of Africa


Wild At Heart

The Cape's Enchanted Wild Horses

The Cape's Enchanted Wild Horses have survived for over a century in wetlands between Kleinmond and Rooisand in South Africa's Western Cape.

One of my favourite stories about the origins of these Wild Horses is that they are the descendants of a shipwreck off the coast near Gansbaai in 1852. The ship was the British naval frigate HMS Birkenhead, which had been converted into a troop carrier. The ship was en route to Algoa Bay, carrying troops to fight the Xhosa. There were 643 people aboard, mostly soldiers but also civilians and children. As well as nine horses from the 8th Calvery.

 
Wild Colt's Dilemma | Experience the essence of struggle and triumph in the 'Colt's Dilemma,' a compelling black and white fine art print capturing the tenacious spirit of a young colt vying for the attention of a pregnant mare.

Wild Colt's Dilemma

"Experience the essence of struggle and triumph in the 'Colt's Dilemma,' a compelling black and white fine art print capturing the tenacious spirit of a young colt vying for the attention of a pregnant mare.

 

The ship's captain desired speed and chose to follow the coastline. Late at night, in calm waters, the ship collided with a rock near the shark-infested waters of Gansbaai. The ship broke up within minutes, the quarter boats had not been maintained and could not be lowered, and the majority of those on board perished with the ship. The Captain ordered the release of the nine horses before the ship was completely submerged. They swam to the shore of the nine horses, eight of which survived; the ninth had broken its leg. 


Wild Colt | Wild Horses Of Rooisands

"The Untamed Beauty: Fine Art Horse Prints for Your Home"

 
his Striking Image Captures A Wild Stallion Standing Majestically On The Edge Of The Coastline, With The Indian Ocean's Waves Crashing In The Background

Wild Stallion Of Rooisands | Fine Art Print

This Striking Image Captures A Wild Stallion Standing Majestically On The Edge Of The Coastline, With The Indian Ocean's Waves Crashing In The Background

 

Only 113 of the 643 people on board survived. The HMS Birkenhead has been the subject of "Lost Gold" rumours on board. Many attempts have been made over the years to recover the gold. No significant amount of gold has ever been discovered.

 
This Intimate Portrait Captures A Wild Mare Standing Amidst The Coastal Landscape, Her Mane Tousled By The Breeze. Her Scarred Body Tells A Story Of Survival And Strength, Reflecting The Resilience Of These Majestic Creatures.

Portrait Of A Wild Mare | Wild Horses Of Rooisands

This Intimate Portrait Captures A Wild Mare Standing Amidst The Coastal Landscape, Her Mane Tousled By The Breeze. Her Scarred Body Tells A Story Of Survival And Strength, Reflecting The Resilience Of These Majestic Creatures.

 

Locals believe the 8th Cavalry Warhorses interbred with local farm horses known as Bolandse Waperd, a subspecies of the famous Cape Horse of the 18th century. Many people believe this is the Wild Horses' ancestry

 
his Enchanting Photograph Features A Pregnant Wild Mare Poised Gracefully On The Edge Of The Coastline, With The Indian Ocean Providing A Dramatic Backdrop

Wild Mare Of Rooisands | Dawning Of Motherhood

his Enchanting Photograph Features A Pregnant Wild Mare Poised Gracefully On The Edge Of The Coastline, With The Indian Ocean Providing A Dramatic Backdrop

 

Whatever their origins, the Enchanted Wild Horses of the Cape have survived for years on a small stretch of wetland. They have adapted well to the conditions, growing thick fur during the winter to deal with the cold rain and icy temperatures of the Capes. Their saucer-shaped hooves cope with the soft underfoot of the wetlands and sandy beach.

According to environmentalists, the Wild Horses play a vital role in the ecosystem because their paths keep clogged waterways open.

 
wild stallion wading through the shallow sea waters

Wild Stallion Wading | Wild Horses Of Rooisands

"Grace and Power: Stunning Wild Horse Wall Art"

 

The Wild Horses appear to regulate herd size, as there have never been more than 30 individuals over the decades, with no more than 3 to 4 herds traversing the beaches and wetlands.

 
This Intimate Vertical Crop Captures A Young Wild Colt, His Coat Dusted With Sand, Glancing Over His Shoulder With A Mix Of Caution And Defianc

Wild Colt Of Rooisands | Fine Art Print

This Intimate Vertical Crop Captures A Young Wild Colt, His Coat Dusted With Sand, Glancing Over His Shoulder With A Mix Of Caution And Defiance.

 

The future of The Cape's Enchanted Wild Horses is uncertain due to the increasing urbanisation of local towns and the encroachment of human settlements.

 

Author Peter Delaney