A Herd in Trouble: BLM Works to Round Up Wild Horses in Cold Creek

Wild horses are an integral part of Nevada's Wild West heritage, with over 35,000 still roaming freely across the state. However, many of these majestic creatures in Southern Nevada are facing dire circumstances.

Shayne Banks from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) warns, "Even if they make it through the summer, they may not make it through the winter." The wild horse herd near Cold Creek, Nevada, consisting of approximately 427 animals, is particularly at risk, with many horses appearing malnourished.

"We do consider this an emergency situation. These horses are very thin, and in an effort to save their lives, we feel that we need to remove some of these animals and get them the care that they need," Banks explained.

This week, BLM ranchers aim to round up as many as 200 wild horses for transfer to a facility in Utah. The younger animals will be put up for adoption, while the rest will be relocated to pastures. The Cold Creek horses face a twofold problem: drought has depleted vegetation, and the horses have become reliant on human handouts, diminishing their natural foraging instincts.

BLM ranchers are employing a bait method, using hay to lure the horses into pens. Wild horse advocate Melissa Ohlsson supports this approach, stating, "They're taking the ones that need it. They're taking the ones that are skinny and that need help, and that's a good thing." She emphasizes that this method is far more humane than using aircraft, which critics argue can result in injuries or fatalities.

The BLM believes that thinning the herd will significantly enhance the horses' chances of survival.

Originally Posted By KSNV