There are many things to do when seeing wild horses, and this will go over how to make your trip safe and FUN!
dO: Stay a respectful distance away
Remember, we are visitors in their homes! The general rule is 100ft away, but check with the BLM Field Office to make sure it’s not greater.
If you want to take up close pictures, bring a good camera with zoom!
Don’t touch them even if they come close and even when they are just too cute. We want them to stay wild!
Even in the snow, wild horses find food.
Don’t: feed wild horses
In fact, in Nevada it is illegal to feed the horses. You could face gross misdemeanors and fines.
The horses learn not to be afraid of cars and traffic and often get hit or killed. The ones who don’t, won’t be wild or free any longer.
Suzanne Roy, executive director of American Wild Horse Campaign, practicing car etiquette.
do: practice good car etiquette
Stay on designated roads and trails. Driving off of them could destroy habitat and feed for the horses
Turn your car off when stopped to view horses-- do your part to prevent wildfires!
If a horse approaches your car, roll your windows up and wait for them to move along. Again do not pet or feed them!
Never park near water holes. Some herds have one chance to get to these holes and you don’t want to prevent them from getting there
Photo credit: Mike Lorden
Don’t: bring your dogs
Wild horses and burros are afraid of dogs. HMAs are their homes and therefore no place for our canine companions.
If you must bring them, keep them on a leash at all times.
Do: beware of where they are going
Horses and burros have the right of way. If they come near you, move.
Never go between a stallion and his mares or a mare and her foal.
Don’t fly drones. It could cause the horses to stampede and trample their foals or even people.
Experience true wildness by being calm and respectful
Don’t: be disrespectful of them or their home
Don’t harass or alter their behaviour. For example, don’t chase them or cluck to get their attention.
Think slow movements and soft voices. By being sensitive to their presence, you’ll see more of them in their natural state.
Leave no trace you were there. These are the horses homes, you are a guest. Would you like a guest to destroy your home and then leave?
Do: have fun! We hope you fall in love with these american icons
Photo credit: Tonya Damron
“In certain areas, the horses, especially youngsters, are curious and get accustomed to visitors – the gift is being there, honor that, be respectful. You don’t need a photograph or selfie with a wild horse. It’s not worth endangering them. It’s our responsibility to protect them and keep them wild.”