BLM Uses Birth Control to Manage Wild Horse Populations

Managing wild horse populations humanely is a priority for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Through the innovative use of field darting, theBLMadministers birth control to wild horses, effectively controlling their numbers while ensuring their well-being. This article explores the process and its impact on the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area.

Field Darting: A Humane Approach

Dazzle, a chocolate brown mare, cleverly avoided a dose of birth control during a field darting session at the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area.BLMwild horse specialist Tricia Hatle and volunteer Ada Inbody work diligently to administer birth control to mares like Dazzle, aiming to manage the wild horse population effectively.

Field darting requires patience and the ability to blend into the herd. Hatle and Inbody track untreated horses using a photo database and descriptions. Once identified, Inbody administers the shot with a dart gun, aiming at the horse’s backside from 20-40 yards away.

Challenges and Successes

There is always a risk of hitting an unintended target, but Inbody, confident in her aim, ensures accuracy. If a shot isn’t possible, the team waits for another opportunity, as darts must be used within 48 hours and cannot be reused.

TheBLMbegan using field darting in 2011, and it has proven effective. About 65 mares receive birth control annually, reducing foal births significantly. In 2009, 46 foals were born, but by 2012, that number dropped to 14.

Public Awareness and Future Plans

Hatle speaks to groups to raise awareness about theBLM’s field darting efforts, addressing misconceptions about the practice. Unlike other herds tracked with helicopter gathering, the McCullough Peaks herd benefits from this intimate tracking method.

Maintaining an appropriate adult wild horse population is crucial, and theBLMaims to keep the McCullough Peaks herd at about 100 horses. Field darting occurs seven days a week, with adjustments made as needed to manage herd size.

While birth control treatments may not always prevent pregnancies, they improve the horses' quality of life. TheBLMcontinues to refine its methods, ensuring the well-being of these majestic animals.

Originally Posted By Cody Enterprise