New Mexico: Wild Horses at a Glance

New Mexico is home to several federally-protected wild horse populations, offering a glimpse into the majestic lives of these mustangs. The largest and best-known herd roams northern New Mexico, spanning the U.S. Forest Service's (USFS's) Jicarilla Wild Horse Territory (WHT) in the Carson National Forest and the Carracas Mesa Herd Management Area (HMA), managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Another herd resides on BLM land in eastern New Mexico, within the Border Atravesado HMA, where mountain lions naturally regulate the small population. Additionally, two more populations inhabit the USFS Caja del Rio and Jarita Mesa Wild Horse Territories.

In total, federally-protected wild horses occupy less than one percent of federal land in New Mexico, highlighting the need for ongoing conservation efforts to ensure their survival and well-being.