Press Release: Bighorn Sheep Population Faces Challenges in Montana
Montana’s bighorn sheep populations are encountering significant challenges, particularly in Hunting District 622. Recent declines in lamb survival rates, dropping from an average of 45 lambs per 100 ewes to between 31 and 35 in the past two years, have raised concerns among wildlife biologists. Although there was a brief rebound in 2024 with 43 lambs recorded, deterioration in conditions over the last winter has cast doubt on the population’s future.
Wildlife manager Scott Thompson noted that increased mountain lion presence may be contributing to the decline, but believes other factors are at play due to the rapid decrease observed. Notably, two collared bighorn rams have shown surprising movement patterns, with one traveling 130 miles and another 150 miles during mating season, suggesting greater mobility than previously documented.
The situation remains precarious, with just four rams observed in the latest spring survey. Fish Wildlife and Parks is urging the public to report any sightings of bighorns and acknowledges the need for discussions about future introductions to the area. As biologists continue to investigate, experts emphasize the importance of understanding strain diversity and its implications for the species’ survival.
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