How many wild Mustangs are on the range right now?
The BLM estimates that about 29,500 wild horses are roaming on BLM-managed rangelands in 10 Western states, based on the latest data available (compiled as of February 29, 2008). Wild horses and burros have virtually no natural predators and their herd sizes can double about every four years. As a result, the agency must remove thousands of animals from the range each year to control herd sizes.
The estimated current free-roaming population of wild horses and burros exceeds by some 5,700 the number that the BLM has determined can exist in balance with other public rangeland resources and uses. The appropriate management level is approximately 27,300.
Off the range, there are more than 30,000 other wild horses and burros that are fed and cared for at short-term (corral) and long-term (pasture) holding facilities. All wild horses and burros in holding, like those roaming the public rangelands, are protected by the BLM under the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act.
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