Bighorn Sheep M.OVI Field Day
February 18 @ 7:00 am – 4:30 pm
WLFN’s Natural Resources Department will be working alongside the Ministry of Water, Lands and Natural Resource Stewardship to support fieldwork testing bighorn sheep for Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (m.ovi).
What is m.ovi?
Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (m.ovi) is a deadly respiratory disease affecting bighorn sheep. It spreads primarily from domestic sheep to wild sheep and can trigger severe pneumonia outbreaks that cause large die-offs and long-term declines in herds. Lamb survival can remain low for many years after an outbreak, making recovery very difficult. Testing helps identify whether herds have been exposed so wildlife managers and Nations can take steps to protect and restore sheep populations.
WLFN has been actively involved in this work to ensure our stewardship responsibilities are upheld and that we are directly involved in protecting wildlife within our territory.
Members who wish to attend must register in advance with:
Chantelle Rolph, Natural Resources Administrator
Chantelle.Rolph@wlfn.ca
250-296-3507 ext. 316
Warning: This field trip takes place on a working site where sheep may be butchered. Participants may see deceased animals; those uncomfortable with this may wish not to attend.