Daily Reports: Range Creek Wild Horse Roundup

The Range Creek Wild Horse Roundup, initiated by the BLM on September 26, 2019, aimed to remove approximately 200 wild horses from Federal, State, and private lands. The operation's initial days were closed to public viewing due to private land restrictions.

The appropriate management level for this Herd Management Area (HMA) is 75-125 animals, with the current population estimated at 282 horses across 83,410 acres. Removed horses are transported to the Axtell Off-Range Contract Wild Horse Facility in Axtell, Utah.

Daily Reports

October 2, 2019: AWHC's representative was one of two public attendees. 14 horses were captured with no deaths. The roundup concluded with 154 horses captured and 1 death.

Throughout the roundup, mustangs often attempted to escape the trapsite due to the rugged terrain and limited trap placement opportunities. This was not a common occurrence in previous roundups.

Most horses were in good condition, with ample forage available. On the final day, horses were transported in smaller trailers directly to the Axtell facility, unlike previous days.

October 1, 2019: AWHC's representative was one of five public attendees. 22 horses were captured with no deaths. Total captures reached 140.

Horses frequently stopped and attempted to escape at a specific point in the funnel. The helicopter had to follow them further into the trapsite to prevent escapes.

• A horse attempted to jump over a dividing fence, briefly getting stuck.
• Horses pressed against corral bars, causing temporary buckling.
• A horse entered a trailer backwards, causing loading difficulties.
• Horses were more agitated at temporary holding than the previous day.

September 30, 2019: AWHC's representative was one of six public attendees. 12 horses were captured with 1 death. Total captures reached 118.

High winds limited operations to three runs. A foal died after being slammed against the pen by other horses. The pen's small size may have contributed to this incident.

September 29, 2019: On the first public day, AWHC's representative was one of four attendees. No horses were captured due to high winds.

The journey to the trapsite involved dangerous terrain and challenging driving conditions. The BLM caravan traveled at high speeds, creating hazardous conditions for public observers.

^{Dangerous terrain on the way to the trapsite.}

^{The helicopter contractor's horses, known as "Judas" horses, are trained to lead mustangs into the trapsite.}

September 28, 2019: BLM reported 34 wild horses (8 stallions, 22 mares, 4 foals) were captured. No public attendees were present due to private land restrictions.

September 27, 2019: BLM reported 9 wild horses were captured. No public attendees were present due to private land restrictions.

September 26, 2019: BLM reported 63 wild horses were captured. No public attendees were present due to private land restrictions.