However, we can make some general observations based on the typical habitats of mustangs:
Common plants in mustang habitats:
* Grasses: Mustangs are grazers, so they are most often found in areas with abundant grasses. This could include:
* Shortgrass prairie: Blue grama, buffalo grass, and western wheatgrass are common.
* Tallgrass prairie: Big bluestem, switchgrass, and Indian grass are prominent.
* Sagebrush steppe: Grasses are interspersed with sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and other shrubs.
* Forbs: These are flowering plants, and mustangs will consume them for their nutritional value. Some common forbs in mustang areas are:
* Clover: White clover, red clover, and alsike clover.
* Astragalus: Various species of milkvetch.
* Lupine: Blue lupine, silky lupine, and other species.
* Shrubs: Mustangs may graze on shrubs, especially during times of drought or when other food sources are scarce. Some common shrubs include:
* Sagebrush: Big sagebrush, Wyoming big sagebrush, and other species.
* Rabbitbrush: Various species of rabbitbrush, including rubber rabbitbrush.
* Serviceberry: A small tree that provides berries for mustangs.
* Trees: Some areas where mustangs roam have trees, especially along riverbeds and canyons. These may include:
* Cottonwood: Black cottonwood, Fremont cottonwood.
* Willow: Various species of willow, including weeping willow and black willow.
* Aspen: Quaking aspen, trembling aspen.
Important Note: It is crucial to remember that certain plants in mustang habitats can be toxic to horses. Ranchers and wildlife managers must be aware of these potentially harmful plants and monitor the health of wild horses.
To get a more specific answer about the types of plants around mustangs in a particular area, you can research the local flora or contact a local wildlife organization or rancher.