San Gabriel Valley : CREAM OF THE CROP

Wild horses could drag you away if you’re not careful--40 feral stallions will be auctioned today in the City of Industry, orphans from the deserts of southern New Mexico.

The horses are descendants of ranch animals left behind when the Army opened the White Sands Missile Range 50 years ago. Last summer, 122 of the wild horses--nearly 10% of the population--died of starvation during a punishing drought. Army officials arranged to capture and temporarily care for the horses. Since March, more than 800 horses have been adopted by private owners for a $125 fee.

Today, for the first time, Army contractors will auction “the cream of the crop,” with bids starting at $125, said Karen Kelly, a White Sands spokeswoman. The animals include quarter horses, Thoroughbreds and draft horses, suitable for breeding, ranch work or riding, she said. But she warned that the horses are not domesticated and should be purchased by experienced handlers.

Winning bidders must provide transportation for the horses from the adoption site; only a four-horse covered trailer is acceptable. Registration starts at 8 a.m., and bidding begins at noon at the Industry Hills Equestrian Center, 16000 Temple Avenue. Information: (818) 854-2370. . . .