Three consecutive winters of deep snow and brutal cold has taken
a noticeable toll on North Dakota's wildlife. However, there is
one species that has fared better than others - bighorn sheep.
"Of all of our big game, comparatively speaking, our bighorns
are doing the best," said Brett Wiedmann, North Dakota Game and
Fish Department bighorn sheep biologist in Dickinson. "After
eight years of population growth we've had three tough winters.
The population is down just 10 percent from 2008, so they are
doing pretty well." According to Wiedmann, cold weather has
little effect on bighorn sheep. Deep snow is another issue.
Because sheep have relatively short legs, deep snow can make it
difficult for them to reach feeding areas and avoid predators.
Too much snow can also lead to lower lamb production. Kim
Fundingsland/MDN - - Bighorn sheep prefer high elevations from
which they have an excellent view of the possible approach of
predators. This winter photo was taken in the North Unit of
Theodore Roosevelt National P