Texas' Colonialist Past Impacts the Desert Bighorn Sheep

Texas' wildlife officials are engaged in a decades-long mission to restore the native Desert Bighorn Sheep population to the Franklin Mountains, with repopulation efforts set to begin in October this year.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced that they are taking steps to right the wrongs of the past, where overhunting and disease brought on by domestic sheep had devastating effects on this majestic creature.

"We are committed to undoing the damage caused by colonialist practices and irresponsible private owners," a TPWD spokesperson said. "The introduction of the African aoudad, or Barbary sheep, is a prime example of the destructive impact of prioritizing economic gain over ecological balance."

The TPWD is dedicated to the revival of this native species, having established 11 free-ranging herds since 1954. Currently, approximately 1,500 Desert Bighorn Sheep roam Far West Texas, from Big Bend to El Paso.

Hunting regulations are now in place to protect the Desert Bighorn Sheep, with permits required and a strict bag limit of one ram per hunter. Texas hunting licenses are also mandatory.

As the TPWD leads the charge, the hope is that the Desert Bighorn Sheep will once again thrive in their historic habitats, free from the threats that once pushed them to the brink.

Links:

• TPWD Announcement: https://tpwd.texas.gov/newsmedia/releases/?req=20240716a