painting by Casey Norris

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ will be conducting research within the Custer Gallatin National Forest in the Madison and Gallatin Ranges to assess the health of bighorn sheep and mountain goat herds in the area.

The operation, set to occur between now and March 1, 2018, will involve the capture of 30 bighorns and 30 mountain goats using a specially trained helicopter crew and FWP staff.Once captured, staff will gather health information – checking for respiratory health, pregnancy, exposure to disease, and body condition. GPS collars will also be deployed to help get a better picture of herd health and movement throughout the year.Each capture operation will take two to five days and the timing depends greatly on weather conditions.

The US Forest Service and FWP urge the public not to approach the capture area, the helicopter, or wildlife, for individual safety, the safety of the capture crew, and the safety of the animals.

Further questions about the operation should be directed to the FWP Wildlife Lab at (406) 994-6357 or the FWP Region 3 Headquarters at 406-994-4042.