Is it true that adoptions of wild horses by the public have declined in recent years?
Yes. The BLM placed 3,483 animals into private care through adoption in FY 2009 – down from 5,701 in FY 2005. Secretary Salazar’s proposal to reduce the breeding populations of wild horses should have a positive impact on adoptions because as the public becomes aware that the supply is limited, demand for mustangs is expected to grow. This would affect either the amount of money offered for the animals by adopters or the actual number adopted (the new preserves, it should be noted, would offer horses for adoption). The BLM is working hard to increase the number of adoptions through a number of measures, including its involvement in National Wild Horse Adoption Day, endorsed by Congress and held September 26, 2009. This event was supported by the BLM and key wild horse advocacy and humane groups.
