About the Porcine Zona Pellucida (PZP) Contraceptive Vaccine

ROAMING FREE BECAUSE OF THE WILDEST BIRTH CONTROL ON THE PLANET: PZP

This sweeping cinematic short film showcases the untold story of the porcine zona pellucida (PZP) vaccine. As misunderstood as it is fascinating, PZP is transforming conflict between humans and wildlife into coexistence from Africa’s vast savannas, through New York State’s suburban neighborhoods, to the American West’s rugged mesas.

Historically, humans have attempted to manage animals such as wild horses, deer, and elephants through relocation, fear tactics, or culling— techniques that can backfire and, in fact, spur population growth.

Project Coexistence journeys across continents as scientists Dr. Audrey Delsink in South Africa and Dr. Karen Herman in New Mexico prove that a far more humane and effective way of coexisting with wild animals has arrived which, in turn, helps their ecosystems thrive.

PZP IS NON-HORMONAL

PZP IS REVERSIBLE

PZP IS NONTOXIC

A STORY OF INNOVATION: WILD BIRTH CONTROL

Dr. Allen Rutberg recalls the moment PZP changed the trajectory of his career. He was in the middle of a field study at Assateague Island National Seashore in the 1980s when the Park Service decided its wild horse population was too dense, “… and these two cowboys came riding into Assateague and that was the end of my study.” But it marked the beginning of a decades-long partnership with Jay Kirkpatrick and John Turner—the researchers who took PZP out of the laboratory and breathed life into it in the field.

FERTILITY CONTROL IN ENDANGERED SPECIES?

PZP: HELPING ECOSYSTEMS THRIVE

No place on this planet is spared from the impact of humans. Though Africa is vast, fences divide historic ranges of elephants that are vital to a healthy ecosystem. But fenced-in, populations can quickly grow too large for the area. Conflicts with humans can erupt. Ecosystems decline. Enter: PZP. The fertility control is not only keeping elephant families together across much of South Africa, it’s also helping ecosystems thrive.

WHY NOT LEAVE WILD HORSES ALONE?

PZP: HELPING FAMILIES THRIVE

Like Africa, fencing divides the historic lands of America’s wild horses, often making it impossible for bands to journey between their seasonal ranges. Coupled with climate change, the effects on traditional food sources can be devastating. Too many horses in too small of an area can lead to death by starvation. Our film shows how PZP’s success In New Mexico is a beacon of hope for the tightly knit family bands of America’s wild horses.

TAKE ACTION NOW

Make your tax deductible donation to the Sky Mountain Wild Horse Sanctuary.

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