Wild mustangs on US public lands face management controversies involving roundups and long-term holding facilities - finding welfare-positive management solutions for this iconic species is challenging.
Wild mustang management welfare sits at the intersection of conservation, land management and animal welfare. Helicopter roundups cause acute stress and injuries and separate socially bonded family groups. Long-term holding in corrals represents significant welfare compromise for animals evolved for vast movement. Fertility control is a welfare-positive alternative that keeps horses on their home ranges with intact social groups, but requires sustained investment over many years. Hazing programs that encourage movement without capture are another low-welfare-impact approach. The welfare ideal of managing populations through contraception rather than removal faces political and funding challenges.