Aerial Horse Culling to Resume in Kosciuszko National Park Amid Population Spike

The delicate balance of Kosciuszko National Park is once again under threat as wild horse numbers have surged dramatically, prompting the NSW government to reinstate aerial culling. The latest survey reveals a concerning spike, with estimates ranging from 6,476 to over 16,000 horses, a stark contrast to the previous year's figures.

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There's been some population growth. There is still too many horses in the park and we're just going to have to do more.

This resurgence necessitates a renewed effort to manage the brumby population, which the government is legally bound to reduce to 3,000 by mid-2027. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe emphasized the urgency, stating, "There is still too many horses in the park and we're just going to have to do more." The government plans to employ a multi-pronged approach, including aerial culling, rehoming, and trapping, while also exploring fertility control methods.

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You basically use darts and you're able to control the population through fertility control. We're not there yet because the population is too high, but we are doing some feasibility work.

Conservation groups, like the Invasive Species Council, welcome the return of aerial culling, highlighting the severe environmental impact of large herbivore populations. CEO Jack Gough noted the "big spike in the numbers of feral horses" and its detrimental effects on wildlife, rivers, and the park's overall ecosystem. The debate continues over balancing the heritage value of the brumbies with the urgent need to protect Kosciuszko's fragile environment, a challenge that requires decisive action and ongoing management.

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We've seen a big spike in the numbers of feral horses. That has big consequences for the wildlife, for the rivers. Big populations of larger herbivores trash, trample and pollute the place.