Roundup Report: Blue Wing Complex, August 2022
Introduction: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) conducted a significant roundup at the Blue Wing Complex in Nevada, beginning on August 1, 2022. This operation aimed to remove wild horses and burros from the area, which spans over 2,283,000 acres. The BLM set the Appropriate Management Level (AML) at 333-553 wild horses and 55-90 wild burros. Warner Livestock served as the helicopter contractor for this operation.
Roundup Summary
The BLM planned to remove approximately 200 wild horses and 800 wild burros. The roundup concluded with 1,022 animals captured: 218 wild horses and 804 wild burros, with 14 deaths reported.
August 12, 2022
On the final day, 66 horses were captured, concluding the operation. Observers noted improved visibility at the observation site, approximately 0.6 miles from the trap. The helicopter efficiently guided the horses into the trap site, with minimal visible injuries reported.
August 11, 2022
Approximately 23 horses were captured. The day began with clear skies and temperatures ranging from 66 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit. The helicopter maintained a safe distance, allowing the horses to enter the trap site smoothly.
August 10, 2022
61 horses were captured, with three fatalities. Two 4-month-old Bay fillies were euthanized due to hernias, and an 18-year-old Bay mare was euthanized for a missing right eye. The American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) was onsite to observe the operations.
August 9, 2022
68 horses were captured, with one death reported. A 2-month-old foal suffered a fractured leg after being kicked by another horse. The day's operations were conducted under challenging conditions due to heat haze and distance.
August 8, 2022
No roundup occurred on this day.
August 7, 2022
112 wild burros were captured, with two deaths. The BLM euthanized two jacks due to pre-existing leg fractures. Observers faced difficulties monitoring the condition of the burros due to heat haze and dust.
August 6, 2022
No roundup occurred on this day.
August 5, 2022
Approximately 204 wild burros were rounded up. Observers noted challenges in visibility due to heat haze and distance from the trap site.
August 4, 2022
111 wild burros were captured.
August 3, 2022
74 wild burros were captured.
August 2, 2022
130 wild burros were captured, with three deaths reported due to pre-existing conditions.
August 1, 2022
Approximately 174 wild burros were captured, with one death reported. Observers faced challenges due to smoke from nearby fires and heat haze.