Feral Horse Population in Kosciuszko National Park Surges
New survey data reveals a dramatic increase in the feral horse population within Kosciuszko National Park, prompting renewed calls for management action.
The New South Wales government's annual survey, released Friday, estimates that between 6,476 and 16,411 feral horses now inhabit the park. This marks a sharp rise from the previous year's estimate of 2,131 to 5,639 horses, a count taken after aerial shooting had resumed.
Key Details
- Aerial culling was paused in 2025, which officials say contributed to the population rebound.
- Culling operations are scheduled to resume in June of this year.
- The legally mandated target is to reduce horse numbers to 3,000 by mid-2027.
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe stated that the data confirms the urgent need for continued management. She noted early signs of ground cover and vegetation recovery in areas where horse numbers had been reduced, but acknowledged that overall damage to the alpine environment remains evident.
The government is exploring all available options, including engaging an independent expert to design a reproductive control trial for horses within the park.
Statements
"No one wants to have to kill horses. But there are still too many in Kosciuszko national park." — Penny Sharpe, NSW Environment Minister
Sharpe emphasized a cautious, evidence-based approach, using the best available science to guide decisions.
Jack Gough, CEO of the Invasive Species Council, called for annual culls and urgent amendments to the state's feral horse management plan. He argued that retention zones, which cover 32% of the park and require a minimum of 3,000 horses, should be scrapped. Gough advocated for reducing horse numbers to as close to zero as possible.
"This is a national park not a horse paddock." — Jack Gough, CEO, Invasive Species Council