Tragic Helicopter Roundup Leads to Euthanasia of Four Wild Horses in Utah

In a tragic incident in Utah, four wild horses were euthanized after a helicopter roundup caused them to run into a barbed-wire fence. This event has raised significant concerns about the humane treatment of wild horses during such operations.

On August 13, 2018, four wild horses were euthanized after they collided with a barbed-wire fence during an aerial roundup in Utah's West Desert. Disturbing images captured by an observer affiliated with the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) show the chaos as the horses attempted to escape the helicopter.

Photographer Steve Paige reported that the helicopter was driving the horses toward a trap when they encountered the fence. Despite some horses managing to jump over, four were injured and subsequently euthanized.

Suzanne Roy, executive director of the American Wild Horse Conservation, sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Utah director, Ed Roberson, urging the suspension of the roundup. She highlighted the inhumane practices, including the separation of young foals from their mothers and the dangerous proximity of helicopters to the animals.

'There is a way to manage wild horses, and this is not it,' Roy stated, criticizing the BLM's methods and calling for an investigation into the animal welfare violations.

The BLM acknowledged the incident, with spokeswoman Kimberly Finch stating that fewer than a dozen horses escaped capture, and some briefly became entangled in a fence. Finch claimed the euthanized horses had pre-existing injuries.

The American Wild Horse Conservation also noted that the rounded-up horses were in excellent condition, countering claims of overpopulation and starvation. The BLM has been criticized for spending taxpayer dollars on roundups while allowing private cattle grazing on public lands.

By mid-week, the BLM had captured 250 wild horses, exceeding their initial target. These horses were transported to the BLM’s Delta Holding Corrals, joining thousands already in captivity.

Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT) has proposed an amendment allowing potentially harmful sterilization procedures on wild horses, citing overpopulation concerns. However, many advocacy groups oppose such measures due to the risks involved.

This incident underscores the ongoing debate over the management of America's wild horses and the need for humane and effective solutions.

Originally posted by The Daily Mail