Are Alberta’s free-roaming horses part of our natural and cultural heritage, or invasive pests?

Photo: Shutterstock/Momoe Toyama

Wild horses stir passionate debate in Alberta. Many see them as part of the natural ecosystem and cultural heritage—especially Indigenous communities and growing numbers of artists, photographers, and tourists. Others, including ranchers and the provincial government, view them as invasive and damaging to cattle range. Current management includes culling and contraception, though scientific data is limited and often contested. Finding clarity can feel like searching for a needle in a hay bale.

We want to hear your thoughts.

Further Resources

• Canada’s Wild Horses - An Uncertain Future
• Government of Alberta: Feral Horse Management
• The Wild Horses of Alberta Society (WHOAS)
• Help Alberta Wildies Society

Questionnaire: What do you think?