Horses

Update October 25, 2024: Horse Management Data

The National Park Service (NPS) has a responsibility to manage park resources for the benefit of the entire ecosystem present, including many different species. Because Theodore Roosevelt National Park is fenced, the population of horses, bison, pronghorn, and elk must be managed for the health of all species that share the space. Periodic roundups and other studies help to collect data using a science-based process to determine how best to balance these resources. The park is committed to maintaining a healthy, genetically viable horse population. The administration of GonaCon, an immunocontraceptive, is one method that the park uses to control reproduction and manage the population. We will continue to evaluate other approaches to management as we assess the newly collected data, develop a population viability analysis, and draft an updated horse management strategy.

Table 1: Horses Captured during 2024 Roundup at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

From October 13-17, 2024, Theodore Roosevelt National Park conducted a necessary periodic roundup of horses within the park. This roundup provided a significant amount of valuable data that will inform a long-term management strategy to support a genetically viable and healthy horse population at the park.

No horses were transferred out of the park in the October roundup effort due to concerns about the ability for adoption in a limited amount of time. 179 animals were brought into the South Unit Corrals and evaluated for general health, genetics, and population demographics such as age, sex ratio, etc. Horses were microchipped to facilitate identification of each animal. A subset of 15 horses were fitted with GPS collars to better understand their range and use of the park environment.

GonaCon, an immunocontraceptive, was administered to mares that did not successfully respond to previous contraception efforts (called breakthrough). We want to ensure that these few mares are not skewing the population’s genetics by their breakthrough reproduction. An additional number of mares (see table below) received initial doses of GonaCon or boosters on the anticipated booster schedule. Five mares were released from GonaCon (did not receive a booster) to provide an opportunity for them to contribute to the genetic diversity of the next generation of horses.

The park worked with volunteers who have experience with the park’s management program and handling of horses. Volunteers were instrumental in identifying horses that had not previously been microchipped and ensuring bands were reunited and released together.

This data is provided to communicate each animal's status and respond to public interest.

Table Key

* Microchipped prior to 2013.
** Microchipped in 2013.
*** Microchipped in 2024.
Note: GonaCon administered in right hip at roundup. All individuals were released in the band they were with when encountered.

 

Horses Captured during 2024 Roundup at Theodore Roosevelt National Park 

Birth Order ID	AVID RFID	Biomark RFID	Sex	Age	GPS Collar	Gonacon	Date Gathered	Date Handled	Date Released	Notes

 

Table 2: Horses Not Captured during 2024 Roundup at Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The table below denotes horses that the park had no contact with or that the park purposely did not bring into the South Unit Pasture. Specifically, a stallion in one band displayed a physical condition that would have resulted in the band being separated. The park determined it best to leave that band alone and did not make further contact with those animals. We did not bring in some individual horses (e.g. bachelor stallions) due to difficulty in herding single animals. We also provide information on horses historically recorded within the park, but no contact was made with these animals during the roundup. We have no other records indicating their status.

Table Key

* Microchipped prior to 2013.
** Microchipped in 2013.

 

Horses Not Captured during 2024 Roundup at Theodore Roosevelt National Park                         

Birth Order ID	AVID RFID	Biomark RFID	Sex	Age	Notes

 

Table 3: Theodore Roosevelt National Park Horse Herd GonaCon Administration and Foaling History for all Mares Known to be Present in the Park as of 10/16/2024

The table below provides specific information on the years that GonaCon was administered to horses within the park. The purpose of GonaCon administration is to create a level of reproductive control. Each "G" represents the initial treatment followed by boosters. An “F” represents the years where the treated horses foaled. Some animals may have more foaling events than listed. As indicated in the table, mares have received multiple doses to address the differing responses to this immunocontraceptive. It should also be noted that mares have still reproduced when treated with GonaCon. During the October roundup, five mares were released from GonaCon treatment (not boosted), providing an opportunity for these horses to reproduce. These animals were selected based on their genetic diversity regardless of most recent GonaCon administration.

Table Key

* Gonacon administered during roundup to avoid 2025 darting schedule.
Note: "F" indicates known foaling events.
Note: "G" indicates Gonacon administration.
Note: Some animals may have more foaling events than listed.

 

Horse Herd GonaCon Administration and Foaling History for all Mares Known to be Present in the Park

Birth Order ID	2009	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024

 

If you have additional interest in this topic, please see:

Reference List

Baker, D. L,, B.E. McCann, J.G. Powers, N.L Galloway. J.E. Bruemmer, M.A. Thompson and T.M. Nett.  2023. Reimmunization intervals for application of GnRH immunocontraceptive vaccine (GonaCon-Equine) in free-roaming horses (Equis ferus caballus) using syringe darts.  Theriogenology Wild 3 (2023) 100061.   https://doi.org/10.1016/j.therwi.2023.100061 

Thompson, M.A., B. E. McCann, R.B. Simmons and T. Rhen.  2023. Major locus on ECA18 influences effectiveness of GonaCon vaccine in feral horses. Journal of Reproductive Immunology 155 (2023) 103779.  https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.jri.2022.103779 

Baker, D.L., J.G. Powers, J. I Ramson, B.E. McCann, M.W. Oehler, J. E. Bruemmer, N. L. Galloway, D. C. Eckery, and T.M. Nett.  2018.  Reimmunization increases contraceptive effectiveness of gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine (GonaCon-Equine) in free ranging horse (Equus caballus): Limitations and side effects.  PLOS ONE July 21, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0201570 

Ransom, J.A., J.G. Powers, H.M. Garbe, M. W. Oehler, Sr., T. M. Nett, and D. L. Baker. 2014. Behavior of feral horses in response to culling and GnRH immunocontraception. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 157 81-92.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2014.05.002 

Ransom, J.A., B.S. Cade, and N. T. Hobbs.  2010. Influences of immunocontraception on time budgets, social behavior, and body condition in feral horses.  Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 124 (2010) 51-60.  doi:10.1016/j.applanim.2010.01.015 

 

Update October 18, 2024

Today we had a report of an injured animal. Upon investigation, we found a one-year-old female horse exhibiting lameness. The veterinarian examined the animal this evening and determined the humane course of action was to euthanize.

We have identified the animal as one that had been in the handling facility last Tuesday at which time the veterinarian evaluated a small cut on its front left leg. After the exam the animal was cleared to be released with its band Wednesday morning. Since then, the animal has traversed 5 miles with its band and the condition has worsened. The animal has been euthanized.

Update October 17, 2024

We have heard concerns associated with the health status of some animals that were recently rounded up this week. A total of 5 of the 178 horses rounded up were observed to have minor injuries and all were evaluated by a veterinarian. The veterinarian determined all animals were fit for release. We will continue to evaluate their status and will conduct follow-up evaluations if needed.

 

Collected horsehair placed in sampling card, to be used for DNA analysis.

NPS Photos / P Clark

Update for October 16, 2024

The observation area at the south unit animal handling area is no longer available as roundups operations have concluded. We anticipate sharing data collected from the roundup toward the end of next week.

Microchipping horses provide a permanent and unique identifier for each animal, making it easier to identify them over time. Microchips do not provide locations, are just a tool to identify animals accurately through the course of scientific studies. Thanks to dedicated volunteers, each horse and their position in each band has been identified and recorded, aiding in effective population management.

Additionally, analyzing DNA is crucial for assessing genetic diversity. This information is essential to direct future management actions to maintain a genetically diverse population.
Together, microchipping and DNA analysis enhance our understanding of horses and support management practices.

 

Park staff and USGS researcher place GPS collar on a mare while in handling facilities during horse roundup.

NPS Photos / P Clark

Update for October 14, 2024

On Monday, October 14, a subset (4 of the 15 slated to receive collars) of horses were fitted with GPS collars.

The park collaborated with the US Geological Survey and volunteers experienced in horse handling to place the collars.These collars allow us to track where horses roam both day and night, revealing the areas that horses frequent. By pinpointing their locations, we can better understand their range and use of the park environment.

Designed in a teardrop shape, these collars fit comfortably around their necks and are equipped with both Global Positioning System (GPS) and Very High Frequency (VHS) technology. The combined technology allows for detection of a signal when terrain or distance interferes with one of the methods. These collars feature a remote release safety mechanism for added security.

Our ultimate goal? To gather valuable insights on how horses interact with park wildlife and understand their foraging range. The data collected from these collared horses will support the development of a proactive strategy for horse management, ensuring a balance within the ecosystem.

 

Horses feed on hay while in handling facility pasture.

NPS Photo / P Clark

Update for October 13, 2024

On Sunday, October 13, Theodore Roosevelt National Park successfully rounded up approximately 144 horses, bringing them into the South Unit pasture. We now allow horses time to rest, water and feed in our pastures prior to initiating the genetics sampling, administration of immunocontraception and health evaluations etc. We will also be fitting 15 animals with GPS collars. The GPS collars will be very helpful in allowing the park to understand how the horses use the park environment. In addition, we have committed to releasing some animals from the immunocontraception to allow reproduction in the herd beyond those that have already demonstrated successful reproduction.

These roundups provide invaluable opportunities to gather data on horse health and genetics which will inform our future management. By evaluating general health, demographics (like age classes and sex ratio), and genetics, we aim to create a long-term management strategy that ensures a genetically viable and healthy horse population in the park.

Overall, this strategy will strike a balance between ensuring a viable and healthy horse population while protecting the broader park ecosystem.

 

Update for October 12, 2024

While the operational area of this week’s horse roundup remains closed to the public to ensure animal and public health and safety, a nearby viewing area has been designated to allow public observation of the gather from a safe distance. Helicopter operations are currently set to begin October 13 and will continue no later than October 18. (The roundup operations may end sooner. Schedule changes will be posted on this page.)

• Due to limited staff resources and the need to maintain safety and security of the site, two observation windows will be available each day from 9:30 am – 11:30 am and 1 pm – 2:30 pm.

• Interested individuals should park at the South Unit Wildlife Handling Facility. Maps to the facility will be available each morning beginning at 9 am at the South Unit Visitor Center located at 201 East River Road N., Medora, ND 58645.

• Staff on site will direct visitors where to park and how to access the designated viewing area, which will be clearly marked. To protect the health and safety of both the horses and the public, visitors will not be allowed outside of the designated area.

• No more than 15 people can be accommodated at any time.

• Visitors are not required to stay for the entire observation window. Individuals who leave the designated area will not be allowed back in during the same observation window to minimize disruption to the work zone during active operations.

• The road leading to the facility will be closed intermittently throughout each day’s roundup when the helicopter is in flight.

• Public restrooms are not available at the viewing area.

A copy of the superintendent’s record of determination granting limited temporary public access to the designated viewing area is available online and at the South Unit Visitor Center.

Update for October 11, 2024

Theodore Roosevelt National Park appreciates the engagement and interest we have received in both the bison and horse roundups. Some changes will be implemented to the horse roundup to address this feedback. We want to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring a viable and healthy horse population that is manageable based on the park’s natural resource and ecosystem needs.  

The park has completed bison roundup operations in the North Unit, with 196 bison transferred to their new homes, largely with Tribes. Bison were also evaluated for general health, genetics, and population demographics (age, sex ratio, etc.). This data provides important information to the manage the bison population. As a result of this operation, the bison herd size has been reduced by nearly half.

The park is currently shifting operations to the South Unit to prepare for the horse roundup early next week. NPS has decades of experience with these roundups and as such, staff safety and the health and wellbeing of the horses is our top priority. We also seek to minimize disruption to the park ecosystem from these operations. To ensure both animal and public health and safety, the roundup operation is not open to the public.

The upcoming horse roundup will provide a significant amount of data that will inform a long- term management strategy to create a genetically viable, and healthy population at the park. At this time, we have determined that no horses will be transferred out of the park in this year’s roundup effort, due to concerns about the ability of horses to be adopted in a limited amount of time.

Animal health is a priority for the horse roundup. Timing was selected because horses are in optimal health after a long grazing season and cooler temperatures prevent heat related stress during the movement of animals.

A helicopter will be used for roundup operations, which are set to last through October 18. The NPS has extensive experience using helicopters and aviation to support safe and effective animal captures incorporating park staff as observers on the ground and moving animals slowly. We also incorporate low stress livestock handling techniques after animals are brought in. Animals with known mobility constraints will not be rounded up. The park works with livestock veterinarians and subject matter experts to conduct these operations safety and humanely.

The roughly 200 horses will be brought into the South Unit corrals and evaluated for general health, genetics, and population demographics (age, sex ratio, etc.). A subset of horses will be fitted with GPS collars so the NPS can better understand their range and use of the park environment. The park intends to work with volunteers that have experience with the park’s management program and the handling of horses.

A small number of mares that did not successfully respond to previous contraception will be retreated with GonaCon, an immunocontraceptive. The park wants to ensure that these few mares are not skewing the population’s genetics by their breakthrough reproduction. Additional mares may receive a scheduled booster.

Another subset of horses previously identified as having above average genetic diversity will be released from GonaCon treatment, anticipating that they will contribute this diversity to the population through reproduction.

The horse herd population in the future will likely be less than it is today to ensure a healthy herd that is manageable in context of the park’s ecosystem and natural resources. The data gleaned from the roundup will be used to develop target options for the herd’s size using a Population Viability Analysis approach. There is no set number at this time. Once available, we will communicate our results and the recommended management approach for maintaining a viable and healthy population.

We are committed to sharing timely social media updates for those interested in the roundup progress. Updates will be posted on the park’s social media accounts and website throughout the process and when data collection for the roundup is complete. Like our community and visitors, we are committed to ensuring a viable and healthy horse population at the park that is manageable based on the park’s natural resource and ecosystem needs.

Update for October 9, 2024

As of this morning, Theodore Roosevelt National Park has successfully brought in 179 bison and begun the return of many to the north unit of the park. Thus far, the park provided 113 bison to partners, see the history of bison transfers at the park here: https://www.nps.gov/thro/learn/nature/bison-transfer-map.htm. Bison were be evaluated for general health, genetics, and population demographics (age, sex ratio, etc.).

Bison roundup operations are concluding today. We will be mobilizing equipment and personnel to the South Unit over the next few days to initiate the horse roundup operations early next week.

Update for October 1, 2024

Theodore Roosevelt National Park will begin operations to roundup bison on October 5 and horses on October 10 in the park and transfer them to Tribes or new homes. The park will transfer up to 200 bison and up to 15 horses to new homes as part of ongoing efforts to support healthy herds as well as park ecosystems.

Bison roundups are needed to ensure the park’s bison population, which is contained within a fenced environment, is appropriately sized. The horse roundup will support the development of a proactive strategy for horse management to create a healthy viewable population at the park that is manageable and minimizes impacts to park resources.

Animal health is a priority for the bison and horse roundups. The timing of these roundups was selected because animals are in optimal health after a long grazing season and cooler temperatures cause less heat related stress during the movement of animals.

The park will share regular updates regarding the bison and horse roundup progress. To ensure human and animal health and safety, the roundups are not open to the public. The park will work with volunteers who are familiar with the area and handling of horses at key times throughout the roundup. Please check our social media for updates over the next week.

September 27, 2024 News Release: Theodore Roosevelt National Park to Conduct Strategic Bison and Horse Operations

Learn about the history and management of the herd, and the park's adoption program.