For an animal that lives in such rocky and steep country, bighorn sheep are pretty frail and defenseless when put in contact with smaller domestic sheep and goats.
The sheep and goats carry a pneumonia virus that the bighorns have little resistance to, often proving fatal.
“This is an ongoing controversy,” said Kevin Hurley, conservation director for the Wild Sheep Foundation. “Thirteen of 15 western states that have bighorn sheep have had pneumonia die-offs. It’s a pretty ubiquitous situation.”
A recent analysis by the National Wildlife Federation, titled “Bighorns Risks: Identifying Risks Posed by Domestic Sheep,” is an attempt by a group of wildlife organizations to shine a spotlight on Montana’s iconic bighorn sheep herds and propose ways to protect and grow their populations.
Read more here.
(Feature photo via Trapline Photography)
Fresno and Nelson Reservoirs Fishing Report by Brian Nelson 11.30.23
By angelamontana
Eastern MT Cactus Buck
REMINDER: DRAFT GRAY WOLF CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT PLAN
CATCH AND DECEASED!!! by Montana Grant
Recapping the Season on our Last Hunters’ Breakfast Episode for 2023
SMOKIN!! by Montana Grant
Teamwork!
Meat, Pictures and Memories
Pulled Canada Goose Recipe
R3: GENERAL SEASON ENDS WITH MILD WEATHER, MIXED HUNTER SUCCESS IN SOUTHWESTERN MONTANA
Very nice bull elk taken this season
When your fish gets away…
Statewide MT Fishing Report Compilation 11.28.23
Wyoming teen recognized as one of the state’s youngest Ultimate Anglers
By Moosetrack Megan
Flathead Rivers Alliance receives grant to increase ADA accessibility on Flathead River
First Montana sightings of two bee species documented by Montana State researcher
Montana Outdoor Economy Grows 14%, 3rd Largest in the Nation
Upper Salmon River Steelhead Update 11.28.23
FWP News: Fish and Wildlife Commission to postpone hearing on upland game bird hunting regulations, seasons
A Few Survival Tips
TIPS SOUGHT ON FOUR ELK POACHED NEAR ANACONDA
Bear Stew Recipe
FWP News: FWP seeking public comment on several items
Steelhead Season is Hot
