Fazio: Science Escapes Legislature on Horse Bill

Recently, a report highlighted the growing gap between public beliefs and scientific facts. This gap is even more pronounced between the Wyoming Legislature and science. A recently passed resolution (HJ0003) describes the wild horse as 'feral,' ignoring substantial scientific evidence that the North American wild horse is a reintroduced native wildlife species. This is not merely an opinion but a scientific fact. The term 'feral' is a human construct without biological meaning, yet legislatures often act without regard to facts.

Modern genetic studies, utilizing mitochondrial DNA and ancient DNA analysis, reveal that the horse, which disappeared from North America 7,600 years ago, is the same species reintroduced by the Spanish in the 1500s. The modern horse would have gone extinct had it not crossed the Bering Land Bridge before disappearing from our continent. However, it thrived in Asia, Europe, and North Africa before returning to its origin. These facts are supported by up-to-date science, not merely by activist groups. The American Museum of Natural History supports the definition of the horse as a reintroduced native species, noting that 5,000 years of domestication have not altered its fundamental evolutionary-driven genetics, physiology, or social organization. Despite this, the Wyoming Legislature seems to prioritize politics over science, labeling the species as 'feral' to suit political agendas.

It's crucial to move beyond semantics and adopt a science-based approach to managing wild horses. Agencies like the BLM have successfully used fertility control to manage horse populations while preserving the species. However, political interference from all sides hinders real solutions and progress.

Originally Posted By Casper Star-Tribune