Kosciuszko National Park Resumes Brumby Culling

Why this is here: The brumby population within Kosciuszko National Park nearly tripled in one year, with the 2025 count estimating between 6,476 and 16,411 horses.

The New South Wales government will resume aerial shooting of brumbies in Kosciuszko National Park in June, following a recent survey revealing a significant population increase. The 2025 count estimates between 6,476 and 16,411 horses now inhabit the park, up from 2,131 to 5,639 in 2024. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe acknowledged the population growth and stated more action is needed to meet the legal requirement of reducing the brumby population to 3,000 by mid-2027.

The government will also continue trapping and rehoming efforts. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is exploring fertility control methods, though implementation awaits a lower overall population. The latest count used a “mark recapture distance sampling” method with observers in a helicopter.

Jack Gough of the Invasive Species Council supports the culling, citing harm to wildlife and rivers. Gabriela Black of Cooma Mountain Brumby Sanctuary advocates for increased rehoming programs instead of lethal control. The government continues to aim for the 3,000 target despite ongoing skepticism from some brumby advocates.