
With ever increasing climate changes, challenges facing wild horses and burros on America’s public lands increase. Whether it’s diminishing habitat or the changes to our public lands, wild horse and burro herds continue to adapt to their rapidly changing environment.
What are some ways the changing world climate impacts daily life on the range?
- Unpredictable Weather Patterns: More frequent and extensive drought and extreme storms disrupt natural rhythm;
- Vegetation Impact: Climate-driven changes in plant growth alter grazing patterns; and
- Fragmented Habitats: The stress of climate changes is made worse by the loss of habitat to private interests like livestock grazing. This results in fracturing and isolation of herds while also threatening their genetic diversity.
In spite of these serious issues, wild horses and burros play a key role in the resilience of the ecosystem. A few examples include:
- Herd grazing habits help to reduce wildfire fuels;
- Their movement and hoof shape helps spread/plant seeds of native plants;
- The horses and burros can uncover water sources; and
- Their very presence supports a natural balance out on the range.
By the use of science supported and informed climate strategies along with a strong defense of their habitats, a future where wild herds remain wild, free, and ecologically vital is being built in spite of numerous obstacles.
Land conservation strategies such as improving water sources, planting native vegetation, and stewarding the land to keep wild herds safe, healthy, and living in ecological balance with other wildlife are proving highly effective to keeping the wild ones free.