A recent study in Portugal’s Greater Côa Valley has demonstrated that grazing by semi-wild Sorraia horses significantly reduces wildfire risk by lowering vegetation height and quantity, particularly in Mediterranean landscapes increasingly threatened by climate change and declining traditional grazing. While horses effectively control grasses, they have less impact on woody plants, suggesting that a combination of different herbivores—such as deer, bison, and cattle—could more comprehensively reduce fire hazards by targeting diverse vegetation types. This multi-species grazing approach aligns with rewilding strategies that aim to restore ecological balance and resilience through natural herbivore populations.

Beyond fire management, the study found that horse grazing enhances biodiversity by increasing flowering plants, which support pollinators, and improving soil organic matter, fostering soil biodiversity and native tree growth—crucial for ecosystem recovery after fires. Since 2011, Rewilding Europe has reintroduced semi-wild horses across various landscapes to promote these ecological benefits, while also generating socio-economic value through nature-based tourism. Their 2023 report serves as a guide for rewilding projects considering horse reintroduction to boost habitat diversity and ecosystem health.