Hunting of the Wild Brumby in Australia Enrages the Public

In South Australia, the majestic Brumbies, free-roaming wild horses, are at the center of a heated debate. These feral horses, found globally, are considered by the Australian government to be overpopulating and damaging the environment, though specific instances of destruction remain unproven. This has led to controversial hunting practices that have enraged the public.

The Hunt

Due to the government's stance on Brumbies and their perceived overpopulation, it is currently legal to kill a Brumby in the wild. Recently, images have circulated online showing hunters proudly displaying their kills, a sight that many find distressing. Despite public opposition, the government plans to cull nearly 90% of the Brumby population.

A viral photo shows "Big John" with a Brumby he shot with a bow and arrow. Another image, even more heartbreaking, depicts a pregnant Brumby pinto lying dead beside an unidentified hunter, assumed to have been shot.

Poachers

In addition to sanctioned hunting, Australia faces issues with poachers. Five Brumbies, including a pregnant female, were found shot and left where they fell. Although legal hunting requires a license and proper disposal, these regulations were ignored. Authorities are investigating, with potential fines and jail time for the culprits.

Saving the Brumby

In 2010, the West Australian government proposed capturing and slaughtering nearly 5,000 Brumbies. Public outcry led to a change in plans, initially shifting to aerial culling before being abandoned. However, due to rising Brumby numbers, the government has revived plans to eliminate 90% of the population.

Several groups regularly intervene to protect these animals, advocating for capturing, relocating, and retraining Brumbies as a humane solution. Despite opposition, the hunting season continues, highlighting the need for a resolution that respects the rights of these intelligent horses.

Originally posted by Blasting News