Trump’s Cowboy Allies Demand the Slaughter of Wild Horses

Trump’s Cowboy Allies Demand the Slaughter of Wild Horses

On a visit to the wild horses of Onaqui in northern Utah, the scene was one of natural beauty and freedom. However, the Trump administration's proposed solution to the issue of overbreeding mustangs on public lands is a controversial one: round up and slaughter. This approach overlooks more humane solutions, such as fertility control programs.

Wild Horses in Onaqui

The Onaqui herd, managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), benefits from a fertility control program using the contraceptive PZP. This program, led by wild horse specialist Gus Warr, aims to stabilize the population without harming the animals. Despite its success, similar programs have been dismissed in Nevada, where brutal round-ups are the norm.

Controversial Round-Ups

In Nevada, wild horses are often rounded up using helicopters, causing significant distress and injury to the animals. Videos captured by horse advocate Laura Leigh reveal the harsh realities of these round-ups, including the use of electric prods and the tragic death of a foal.

Legal Battles and Advocacy

Leigh, founder of Wild Horse Education, has fought tirelessly against these inhumane practices, winning several lawsuits to enforce humane handling policies. Her dedication to the cause has made her a prominent figure in the fight for wild horse rights.

The Politics of Public Land

The BLM's management of wild horses is heavily influenced by livestock interests, often prioritizing cattle grazing over the welfare of the horses. This has led to a cycle of round-ups and captivity, with private contractors profiting from the capture-and-hold industry.

Fertility Control as a Solution

Advocates like Leigh propose fertility control as a viable alternative to round-ups. However, efforts to implement such programs have been met with resistance from those benefiting from the current system.

The Role of Protect the Harvest

Protect the Harvest, a nonprofit founded by Forrest Lucas, has been a vocal supporter of horse slaughter and other controversial animal practices. Their influence extends to key positions within the Trump administration, further complicating efforts to protect wild horses.

The Future of Wild Horses

With the Trump administration's proposed budget allowing for the slaughter of wild horses, the future of these iconic animals is uncertain. Advocates continue to fight for humane solutions, but the battle against powerful interests remains challenging.

Originally posted by The Daily Beast