We were lucky enough to find both herds on this trip (one to the North and the other South of Simpson Springs). The fighting between stallions was much more prevalent than the last time we photographed the herd in April. The 2,000 head of cattle that winter on the Onaqui HMA were about to be rustled up and hauled to their summer range (it’s funny how the HMA can support 2,000 head of cattle and 2,500 head of sheep each winter but according to the BLM there is not enough range and water for 300 horses….). If you are planning a trip to Utah’s West Desert to see this magnificent herd, I suggest you go soon. The BLM is planning to gather at least 1/2 of the herd and transport them to pens in the Mid-West where they will live the rest of their lives in captivity.
One more post and I will be up-to-date. Enjoy…
This makes me so heartsick. A friend took my daughter and I out to see that herd three years. If I had the right kind of car, I’d go see them again. I’m glad you have captured images of these beautiful beings. I think our wild areas will be empty of wild horses in a few decades or less.
Thank you Cara. Unfortunately I think you are correct, we will likely see the complete demise of wild horses in our lifetime.