Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis)

Bighorn Sheep populations were drastically reduced by disease and market hunting in the 20th century. Many populations that have been re-established summer at relatively high elevations and migrate to lower elevations in the winter.

Many bighorn sheep migrations have been lost due to disease, human settlements at low elevation, predation, and habitat disturbance and fragmentation. Numerous populations, have become small, geographically isolated, and suffer reduced genetic diversity.

The Journey

Bighorn sheep migrate across elevations. Their journey may be only a few miles long, but may reflect thousands of vertical feet. It may be possible to re-institute traditional migration routes for some bighorn sheep populations. However, a broad concern exists regarding the extent to which such restoration should be considered vital.

National Parks

Bighorn sheep use these and other national parks:

Death Valley National Park	Grand Canyon National Park	North Cascades National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park	Yosemite National Park