North Lander Wild Horse Roundup: A Comprehensive Overview
The North Lander Wild Horse Roundup, conducted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), took place in Wyoming's North Lander Herd Management Area (HMA) Complex. This operation, spanning over 375,000 acres, aimed to capture and manage the wild horse population. Despite the BLM's intentions, the roundup raised significant welfare concerns and public scrutiny.
Overview of the Roundup
On July 1, 2024, the BLM initiated a helicopter roundup in the North Lander HMA Complex, contracting Cattoor Livestock Roundup, Inc. for $613,575. The operation aimed to capture 2,806 wild horses, with plans to remove 2,766. The BLM's goal was to achieve an unfounded Appropriate Management Level (AML) of 320-536 horses.
Post Roundup Summary
During the roundup, numerous welfare violations were reported. Horses were overcrowded in trap pens, leading to distress and injuries. Observers had limited visibility, and access to holding facilities was restricted.
Key Events and Observations
Throughout the roundup, several incidents highlighted the challenges and concerns:
- Overcrowding in pens led to distress and injuries among horses.
- Foals were often separated from their families, causing distress and orphaning.
- Observers reported limited access and visibility, raising transparency concerns.
Daily Reports
July 23, 2024
No roundup operations occurred. A wild horse specialist conducted flyover counts, and the BLM announced the completion of the roundup. Some horses are expected to be released after fertility treatments.
July 22, 2024
No roundups took place. The BLM conducted HMA flights to assess remaining horse populations.
July 21, 2024
Operations were mostly hidden from observers. After one morning run, the BLM conducted an unforeseen roundup at a different location.
July 20, 2024
Helicopters captured 70 horses. Observers noted horses were visibly sweaty, indicating stress from the operations.
Pinto trying to break free by jumping over the panels, trying this three times.
July 19, 2024
The BLM targeted a band of eight horses. Observers noted only a handful of horses remained in Muskrat Basin.
July 18, 2024
No roundup operations due to trap relocation.
July 17, 2024
Observers witnessed several families being pushed towards the trap. The heat and long operations raised concerns about horse welfare.
July 16, 2024
No observer report available.
July 15, 2024
66 horses were rounded up. Observers noted the horses were in good condition with no injuries.
July 14, 2024
Helicopters gathered about 250 horses. Observers heard foals whinnying after being separated from their mothers.
July 13, 2024
Low visibility at the observation site. A foal and its family escaped the helicopters.
July 12, 2024
No observers on site.
July 11, 2024
No observers on site.
July 10, 2024
No observers on site.
July 9, 2024
No observers on site.
July 8, 2024
Three public members attended. Observers noted several welfare violations.
July 7, 2024
Three public members attended. Observers noted several welfare violations.
July 6, 2024
No roundup operations on this day.
July 5, 2024
225 horses were captured, exceeding the target. Observers noted chaotic conditions.
July 4, 2024
25 horses were captured. Observers noted one death at temporary holding.
July 3, 2024
111 horses were captured. Observers noted a foal was found wandering alone.
July 2, 2024
79 horses were captured. Observers noted two deaths at temporary holding.
July 1, 2024
383 horses were captured. Observers noted overcrowding and distress among horses.
Last updated July, 2024