Introduction
The Calico Roundup, held from November 28 to December 1, 2011, was a significant event in the realm of wild horse conservation. Documented by AWHC's Deniz Bolbol, this roundup was made possible through a generous grant from the ASPCA. The event highlighted the beauty of the Calico horses and the challenges faced during their capture and treatment.
Day 10: November 28, 2011
Calico is renowned for its beautiful horses, and the 75-80 horses captured on this day were no exception. It was heart-wrenching to witness the separation of these tight-knit families, knowing they would be forever parted from their homes and freedom.
Stallion with bloody nose at temporary holding, Nov. 28, 2011.
The video above was taken on November 28-29, 2011, at the second trap site in the Granite Herd Management Area. The temperatures were moderate, making it an ideal time for catch-treat-release (CTR) roundups for PZP administration before freezing temperatures set in.
The BLM contractor pilot, Josh Hellyer with Sun J, conducted the roundup. By 8:30 a.m., a family of seven horses was already in the trap pens. Throughout the day, multiple bands were captured, but no water was provided to the foals, who remained in the pens all day.
Observation of the trap mouth was obstructed due to restrictions, preventing a clear view of the helicopter's actions. Thankfully, no horses were injured during this portion of the roundup, although a stallion was observed with a bloody nose.
Day 11: November 29, 2011
The BLM reported that 72 horses were captured on November 28. On this day, 15 horses were captured from two runs, appearing to have been driven long distances. The lack of real-time cameras with GPS on helicopters makes it difficult to verify the distances and speeds involved.
BLM staff administered PZP and processed mares for release. Sadly, one PZP-treated mare broke her neck and died during loading, a fact not disclosed until the following day.
Day 12: November 30, 2011
The roundup was suspended due to high winds.
Day 13: December 1, 2011
The roundup remained suspended due to high winds, and the trap was moved to the Calico Herd Management Area near Wheeler Spring.