F&G Begins Aerial Surveys for Bighorn Sheep

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game plans to conduct aerial surveys for bighorn sheep beginning February 14 along the Snake and Salmon rivers in Big Game Management Unit 11. The helicopter surveys are scheduled during the winter months to cover areas at the same time of the year so that information gathered is comparable from year to year. The goal is to compare population trends, and age and sex ratios. This information allows biologists to be more precise in setting seasons and tag levels, which results in maximum opportunity for hunters. In spite of the high costs and the danger associated with low-level flying, helicopter surveys continue to provide wildlife managers with the best information to use in managing wildlife.