Wildlife

Welfare of Wild Mustangs After Roundup

Mustangs rounded up by BLM helicopter operations face welfare challenges in holding facilities and during the adoption process.

Key Facts

Over 60,000 mustangs are held in BLM short-term and long-term holding facilities
Holding facility conditions vary enormously in quality and welfare provision
The Mustang Heritage Foundation runs training and adoption programs
Gentled mustangs placed with experienced adopters can have excellent welfare outcomes
Long-term holding without social and physical enrichment causes welfare deterioration

Welfare Considerations

Post-roundup mustang welfare depends critically on holding facility quality and adoption program effectiveness. Well-managed gentling and adoption programs transform traumatized gathered horses into thriving companions, while inadequate long-term facilities create chronic welfare deficits.

What You Can Do

Support Mustang Heritage Foundation adoption and gentling programs
Advocate for welfare standards in BLM short-term and long-term holding facilities
Consider adopting a trained mustang if your experience level permits
Donate to organizations evaluating and improving BLM holding facility standards