Herds Across the West: Carracas Mesa Herd Management Area

The Carracas Mesa Herd Management Area (HMA) in New Mexico is a unique and vital habitat for wild horses. As part of our series, Herds Across the West, we delve into the specifics of this HMA to provide a deeper understanding of the wild horses and burros that inhabit it. This area is crucial for conservation efforts and offers a glimpse into the rich history and biodiversity of the region.

Where to Find Them

The Carracas Mesa HMA is one of only two HMAs in New Mexico. Located 35 miles northeast of Bloomfield, it lies south of the Colorado border and east of Navajo Lake. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages this 8,999-acre area, while the adjacent U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Jicarilla Ranger District oversees the 76,000-acre Jicarilla Wild Horse Territory (WHT). Together, they manage the Jicarilla wild horse herd.

The Appropriate Management Level (AML) for the Carracas Mesa HMA is set at 23 horses. The USFS Jicarilla WHT has an AML of 50-105, making the joint management AML for the herd between 73 and 128 horses.

Photo: BLM

The History

The history of the Jicarilla wild horses is somewhat obscure, with origins likely tied to cavalry stock and local ranch horses, as well as horses from the nearby Jicarilla Apache Reservation. Genetic testing reveals a mixed breeding background, with colors ranging from bay to paint.

These wild horses share their habitat with a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, elk, bald and golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, ravens, and numerous smaller terrestrial species.

Livestock grazing is permitted across most of the Herd Area, except for a 9,000-acre parcel dedicated to wildlife and wild horses. Currently, there are no roundups planned for the Carracas Mesa HMA.