CHALLIS, Idaho (AP) — Nearly 300 wild horses have been captured in central Idaho as part of a plan by federal land managers to reduce the number of wild horses roaming the area to about 185.
Related: Officials examine ways to limit wild horse population growth
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management says that 295 wild horses were rounded up over seven days ending Monday in the Challis Herd Management Area near the town of Challis.
Related: BLM releases wild horses back into area scorched after 2015 Soda Fire
Aerial census flights are planned this week to determine the number of wild horses remaining in the area.
Related: BLM approves wild horse roundup in southcentral Idaho
The agency says balancing herd size with what the 260-square-mile (675-square-kilometer) management area can support will help protect habitat for wildlife species such as sage grouse, pronghorn antelope, mule deer and elk.
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The agency says mares released back into the management area will be treated with fertility control, and horses not released will be readied for an adoption and sale program.
