Feral horse numbers surge in Kosciuszko national park after pause in aerial culling, survey shows
Summary
The number of feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park has increased significantly after the New South Wales government stopped aerial culling in 2025. The government plans to resume culling in June and aims to reduce the herd to 3,000 horses by mid-2027 to protect the park’s environment.Key Facts
- A new survey estimates 6,476 to 16,411 feral horses in the park in late 2025, up from 2,131 to 5,639 the previous year.
- Aerial culling, or shooting from the air to control horse numbers, was paused in 2025 but will restart in June 2026.
- The NSW environment minister said horse damage to plants and soil is still a big problem.
- The government is also considering a trial to control horse reproduction without killing them.
- Conservation groups want the government to remove zones that allow at least 3,000 horses to remain in the park.
- These zones cover about 32% of the park and were created to satisfy brumby (feral horse) supporters.
- The government has the power to change the management plan but has not removed the zones or lowered the horse target.
- Experts say annual culling is needed to keep feral horse numbers down and protect native plants and animals.
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