Range-Wide Status of Mountain Sheep

The number and distribution of mountain sheep (bighorn [ Ovis canadensis ], thinhorn [ Ovis dalli ]) have contracted since the mid-1800s and the status of mountain sheep populations varies throughout North America. Jurisdictions use different methods to estimate population size or trend of mountain sheep populations based on available resources and management needs and priorities. Regardless of survey methodology, data suggests we are in a period of diminished abundance for at least some mountain sheep populations. This reality and the reasons for this diminished abundance must continue to be documented, monitored, researched, and communicated to all who manage or otherwise care about mountain sheep to maintain and hopefully improve the current population status of mountain sheep. It is imperative we continue to chronicle the past so better management decisions for mountain sheep are made today and in the future. This is especially important because the environment that mountain sheep exists in is constantly changing and the factors affecting population change become even more challenging.