Few species can withstand the barren, hot Namib Desert. However, near Garub in the desert's eastern region, a herd of around 150 wild horses run free.

Weather in your inbox

Forecast Location

Sign Up

By signing up you agree to the Terms & Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe at any time.

They are one of the most isolated horse populations in the world, and they are the only feral herd in Africa. They have survived here for more than 100 years, but recent droughts have put them in danger.

The horses now have to travel further to find green pastures, making them easy prey to hyenas, The Namibian reported in March, and the Namibia Wild Horses' Foundation released a statement that a foal hasn't survived into adulthood since 2013. The foundation is seeking solutions, including possibly moving the horses to a sanctuary within the Garub area.

(MORE: Life at the Edge: The Impossible Choices of Those Living through Drought in Somalia)

There are a few different theories regarding the origin of Garub's wild horse population. One thing is for certain, the horses were introduced by European colonists. Some hypotheses propose that the horses are decendants of horses used by the German army, and were let loose or went astray during their retreat from the South African army in 1915. Another theory is that the horses were raised for breeding and mixed with South African horses and other abandoned horses in the Aus Mountains, creating a new herd. Still, other theories exist. The isolated location aided in the creation of an entirely new breed, now known as "Namibs."

Two main factors have helped the adaptable horse population survive. Diamond mining made Garub a restricted area for 80 years, so the horses were safe from hunters and horse traders. The other important factor is the Garub borehole, which became a watering hole for the horses. 

Over the years, the horses have learned to withstand the extremely hot conditions, which can reach up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Telané Greyling, who has studied the Namibs for decades, has found that the breed has learned to tolerate higher levels of dehydration than domesticated horses. The family groups in which they live have learned to peacefully share the desert's scarce water sources. 

(MORE: Mountain Goats: How Do They Do It?)

Piet Swiegers, manager of the Klein-Aus Vista lodge in the area, told CNN that the horses stayed out of sight of the locals for generations. 

"They were known as the ghost horses," he said. "We hardly saw them."

In 1986, the horses' habitat became part of the Namib-Nauluft National Park, Africa's largest game reserve, bringing them in closer contact with humans. Since then, water troughs have been built for the Namibs. More contact with humans may be part of the problem, as the horses have less fear when searching for food during drought years. 

MORE FROM WEATHER.COM: The Island Overrun by Wild Horses