WILD HORSES 

 SOUTHWEST WYOMING HERDS 

 Information

Wild horses have always been symbols of the West, living examples of a wide-open landscape and an untamed frontier spirit.

Horses were first seen in this country about 10,000 years ago, but for unknown reasons became extinct. They were not seen again for another 9,000 years when the Spanish reintroduced them in the 1500’s.

Current herds are descendents of those Spanish horses along with animals turned out by ranchers or enticed away from ranches by wild horse herds. In addition to the wild horses, visitors have a chance to see an abundance of wildlife and take in some of the best scenic vistas in Wyoming.

This is a relatively dry area with seemingly little vegetation. However, it is home to a surprising array of wild creatures. These include wild horses, antelope, desert elk, deer, rabbits, coyotes, hawks, eagles and sage grouse, among others. The rock formations, the color of the rocks, the grand mountain vistas, offer exciting views. High desert mountain areas where out tours occur, varies from very interesting to extraordinary. The Rocky Mountains' reputation for magnificence has earned it the hard way, gawk by gawk. Big deep blue western skies and broad western rim buttes that stretch for miles and miles.

Most wild horses in Wyoming are located in the southwestern quarter of the state. The Rock Springs BLM is the headquarters of the Wild Horse Program in Wyoming. The appropriate management level for wild horses in Wyoming is approximately 6,000. 2,500 of these horses are in the Rock Springs District. There are also herds located near Adobe Town, which is managed by the Rawlins BLM office. 

The existence of the herds of wild horses is a credit to the private landowners of this area who do not fence their land, thus allowing the horses to wander as necessary for food, water, and shelter in the winter as nature provides.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) conducts a periodic census of the wild horses to determine how many animals must be removed from the range. As a result there are fewer cases of injury or death from starvation, dehydration, and susceptibility to the elements. The horses are gathered at various times throughout the year.

Wild horses have no true natural predators other than an occasional mountain lion. As a result, populations can increase at a very high rate. This rate of increase is generally about 20% per year, with good years topping 40%. When populations of wildlife, wild horses, and domestic livestock exceed the capabilities of their habitat, the environment begins to suffer. If prolonged, it leads to poor rangeland and an overall decline in the health of the wild horses.

 Wild Horse Tours

BLM Wild Horse Program - Visitors Guide -  Wyoming Travel Information - Wild Horses Wyoming

The Carbon County Visitors Counsel is located in Riverside, Wyoming off HWY 70. Click on the picture for more  information on things to do in Carbon County.