Mesa Verde National Park in Southwest Colorado may not be a household name for some. This national park was established to preserve the architecture and landscape of the indigenous Pueblo population.
According to a report from The Journal, the park has seen an increasing number of wild horses in Mesa Verde. These 50-60 “trespass” horses are not allowed in the national park. The park has rules against livestock, which apply to wild horses. Officials believe the horses will compete against the elk for the limited amounts of resources. In addition, park officials are worried about damage to the fragile landscape of this park.
The horses will be rounded up using bait systems and “low-stress” trapping techniques. The park brought in experts in low-stress stockmanship to help learn about a safe and delicate way to handle the horses. From there park will hold the horses for 30-days where they will be given veterinary care. Local non-profits will tame the horses and put them up for adoption.
Images from: National Mustang Association, Colorado Facebook Page, Mesa Verde National Park Facebook Page