The Bureau of Land Management is reminding residents that wild horses and burros on public lands are federally protected under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971. Removing one from the range without authorization is illegal and can harm the animal, as they require special care and handling.

Enacted in 1971, the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act protects these animals as symbols of the historic spirit of the West and ensures they remain a natural part of public lands. Unauthorized removal of these animals disrupts the natural balance and puts them at risk, as their behavior can be deceiving and attempting to feed or capture them without proper knowledge can lead to harm and legal consequences.

If you believe a wild horse or burro may be in distress, do not approach or attempt to capture it. Instead, contact your local BLM office for assistance. The BLM is committed to education and outreach to help the public understand these laws and the reasons behind them.