How Mycoplasma Ovipneumonia Affects Bighorn Sheep Population

The state of Montana is no stranger to various wildlife diseases that affect populations and lead to increased awareness.

A recent study of bighorn sheep in northeastern Montana yielded some concerning results.

The sheep tested positive for a microorganism known to cause pneumonia.

Bighorn Sheep Test Positive For Bacteria

Two Bighorn Rams tested positive in hunting district 622 for Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae or M. ovi, which is known to cause pneumonia.

One of the sheep that tested positive was harvested by a hunter this past fall.

The second ram died during spring survey efforts conducted by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.

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Mycoplasma Ovipneumoniae

M. ovi can facilitate infections, leading to pneumonia outbreaks in bighorn sheep herds.

"Pneumonia can cause all-age die-offs and chronic infections in adult and lamb bighorn sheep. This can persist for many years within a herd,” said Dr. Jennifer Ramsey, FWP wildlife veterinarian. “This situation is very complicated and not completely understood because we also have robust herds infected with M. ovi and other pneumonia-causing bacteria, and we do not see population impacts."

Bighorn Sheep Hunting In Montana

Earlier in April, the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Commission closed bighorn sheep hunting in HD 622 due to significant population loss.

Hunting district 622 is located on the north side of the Missouri River Breaks in northeastern Montana.

Biologists have had concerns over the last two years regarding the population in this area.

Hunters have also reportedly noticed sick sheep and a decline in overall population numbers.

Members of the public recreating in the area are encouraged to report sheep sightings to the Glasgow FWP office at 228-3700.

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