Conservation There were probably over one million bighorns in North America at the start of the 19th century. The present population is about 25 000. Dall and Stone sheep numbers are not well known, but have changed little since pre-settlement times. The principal bighorn decline was from 1850 to 1900 a result of diseases introduced by domestic sheep, loss of ranges to livestock, and excessive hunting by man. Luckily, recent conservation measures have halted the decline and some herds are now increasing.
Many bighorns are safe within national parks and game reserves.
Restrictive hunting laws and relocation of animals into formerly occupied ranges have increased numbers. However, it is hoped that further re-introductions, new parks and reserves, and improved livestock grazing practices will be rewarded by increased numbers of our unique and majestic bighorn. Reading list Banfield, A.W.F. 1974. The mammals of Canada. University of Toronto Press.