OREGON TO LETHALLY REMOVE MOUNTAIN LIONS – We have published many articles recently discussing the increased numbers of mountain lions.  Mountain lion numbers have grown in almost every state.  The effects of these excess mountain lions has also grown.  The state of Oregon is no different, and now the U.S. Fish and Wildlife are doing something about it.

Mountain Lion Impact on Bighorn Sheep

The biggest impact that the mountain lions are making is on bighorn sheep.  Specifically on the herd in the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge.  Sadly, the number of bighorn on the refuge has dwindled to less than 50 sheep.

“We’re extremely concerned about the steep decline in the population of bighorn sheep on the refuge,” said Robyn Thorson, Columbia-Pacific Northwest Regional Director for the Service. “The Service and ODFW are working together to develop this management plan that will enable us to avoid extirpation while implementing long-term solutions for habitat improvement. This plan will help us save this population of bighorn sheep.”

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services will work closely with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife on lethally removing the mountain lions.

Habitat Impact

There are other factors that are impacting the number of bighorn in this specific area.  Between 2017 and 2020, the number of bighorns decreased by 67%.  Mountain lion predation definitely has made an impact, but the habitat in the area has also caused the reduction.  Biologists state that with the increase in juniper trees and other invasive plants, the vegetation has been severely impacted.  When bighorns don’t have the feed they need, plus they’re being killed by mountain lions, the numbers will decrease.

Biologist collared 19 bighorns back in 2017.  Of those 19 bighorns, 10 have already died.

Conclusion

The order to lethally remove mountain lions in this area is a temporary order.  The two organizations have a specific number of lions they look to remove over the coming months.  Hopefully, with removing the mountain lions, and improving habitat, the bighorn population will be able to grow.

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