Feral horse numbers surge in Kosciuszko national park after pause in aerial culling, survey shows
Feral horse populations in Kosciuszko National Park have surged significantly, with estimates reaching as high as 16,411 following a pause in aerial culling. Conservationists are calling for a reevaluation of retention zones that allow thousands of horses to remain in the park. The New South Wales government plans to resume culling in June to manage the population and protect the park's fragile environment.
- ▪The New South Wales government estimates feral horse numbers in Kosciuszko National Park have surged to between 6,476 and 16,411.
- ▪This increase follows a pause in aerial culling in 2025, which had previously reduced numbers significantly.
- ▪The government aims to reduce horse populations to 3,000 by mid-2027 to protect native vegetation and wildlife.
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| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/may/22/feral-horse-numbers-surge-in-kosciuszko-national-park-after-pause-in-aerial-culling-survey-shows |
| Publication time | Thu, 21 May 2026 20:00:38 GMT |
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Feral horse numbers in the Kosciuszko national park are estimated by the NSW government to be as high as 16,411. Photograph: Mike Bowers/The GuardianView image in fullscreenFeral horse numbers in the Kosciuszko national park are estimated by the NSW government to be as high as 16,411. Photograph: Mike Bowers/The GuardianNew South WalesFeral horse numbers surge in Kosciuszko national park after pause in aerial culling, survey showsConservationists say population rebound demands rethink of retention zones that allow thousands of the animals to remain in the park Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast Lisa Cox Environment and climate correspondentThu 21 May 2026 16.00 EDTLast modified on Thu 21 May 2026 16.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleFeral horse numbers in…
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