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Adopt a wild horse or burro
A wild horse or burro, as defined by federal law, is an unbranded, unclaimed, free-roaming horse or burro found on public lands in the United States. They are descendants of animals that were released by or escaped from Spanish explorers, ranchers, miners, the U.S. Cavalry, and American Indians. A brochure from the Bureau of Land Management explains that wild horses and burros are not accustomed to people and adopters will be challenged to develop a trusting relationship with the animal. Wild horses have become champions in dressage, jumping, barrel racing, endurance and pleasure riding. Wild burros excel in driving, packing, riding, guarding and as companion animals. Both are known for their sure-footedness, strength, intelligence and endurance, the brochure states. "A special selection of animals will be available to good homes for an adoption fee starting at $125" said Director Mike Nedd. There will be about 60 horses and 15 burros at this adoption including, geldings, mares, and yearling horses. "This is your chance to get the special wild horse or burro you have always wanted," he said. The wild horse adoption will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20. Remaining animals will be available for adoption Sunday, Jan. 21, from 8 a.m. until noon. Animals can be viewed by the public between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 19. Adoptions are conducted by competitive bidding. The minimum fee for a horse or burro is $125. Bidders must show proof of adequate facilities to house a horse or burro and must be able to provide transportation. The arena is located just off Interstate 65 at 1070 Schillinger Road North, is easy to get to, and is open to the public with no admission charge. Call 1-888-274-2133 for information and applications for the Mobile adoption. Potential adopters are asked to call early to be preapproved to avoid waiting in line. You can also visit www.wildhorseandburro. blm.gov/adoption or www.es.blm.gov/whb/ to get requirement information and download an application to become a qualified adopter. While the adoption process is simple and straightforward, anyone considering adoption of a wild horse or burro should remember that the animals are wild and require gentling and training. Since the Adopt-A-Wild Horse & Burro Program began in 1973, over 213,000 animals have been adopted nationwide, and of those adopted there were 3,858 adopted in Alabama, 4,566 adopted in Florida, and 4,306 adopted in Mississippi.
To get to the adoption location, from Interstate 65 take Springhill Avenue west which turns into Zeigler Blvd. and continue to Schillinger Road. Turn right to the facility located at the bottom of the hill.
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