The Bureau of Land Management is unloading 160 wild horses and burros captured out West. People gathered around the Sampson County Livestock Arena Friday to get a look at the animals that are up for adoption.
Raymond Murphy from Sneads Ferry, N.C., adopted four of the wild mustangs last year.
"I think if people would take them and really give these horses attention, I think they'll find that they've got a nice animal," he said.
Officials say there are between 40,000 to 50,000 wild horses in America. But government officials say the land cannot sustain more than 30,000, so each year they round up about 10,000 and place them in captivity.
"Most of these horses out here today are from Nevada, Colorado, Utah and maybe some Wyoming horses," said Shayne Banks of the Bureau of Land Management.
Burros are often used in the state to take care of coyotes and wild dogs in the pasture. They also are used for breeding. In fact, officials say the burros are often the first sold. All the animals go through the auction ring one time. If not bought, they are available for $125.
"We're looking for people in the area who can come out and give them a home," Banks said.
Anyone interested in adoption must meet a few requirements. The government retains title to the horses for one year. If the adoption does not work out for some reason, the animal can be returned.
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