Wild horse and burro populations on US public lands are managed through controversial roundups, but fertility control programs offer a more humane alternative with growing evidence of effectiveness.
Helicopter roundups cause acute suffering including injuries, stress, and family group disruption. Long-term holding facilities house horses in conditions far removed from natural movement and social patterns. Fertility control programs using immunocontraceptives address the population management goal while keeping horses on the range in their social groups. These programs require sustained management investment but avoid the cruelty, cost, and public controversy associated with roundups and holding. Expanding contraceptive programs represents both a welfare and resource management improvement.