Wild Horses: Guardians of Galicia's Ecosystem

Wild horses in Galicia play a crucial role in preventing wildfires and preserving ecosystems by grazing on combustible plants. Despite their ecological importance, the population has significantly dwindled. Local guardians, or "besteiros," manage these horses, advocating for policy changes to support their conservation.

In the wooded hills above the village of Barro, Spain, fierce wildfires that once raged annually have nearly been extinguished, all thanks to Lucia Perez and her herd of wild horses.

With fires becoming less frequent since 2019, Perez explained that by grazing on undergrowth, her horses prevent fires from igniting and spreading. Apart from fire prevention, wild horses contribute significantly to the preservation of Galicia's delicate northwest ecosystems.

Despite their cultural and ecological impact, Europe's largest herds of wild horses are diminishing. Guardians known as "besteiros" manage these animals, yet they urge for better legislative support to help offset rising conservation costs and effectively preserve these 'ecological jewels'.

(With inputs from agencies.)