Wild sheep need provincial help to combat declining populations: ONA
Global News
The Okanagan Nation Alliance says there needs to be separation between wild and domestic flocks to prevent disease transmission.
Provincial intervention is needed to combat declining populations of regional wild sheep, the Okanagan Nation Alliance says.
The ONA says there needs to be separation between wild and domestic sheep and goats, as wild populations are continuing to decline due to disease transmission from domestic animals.
“It is our duty and sacred responsibility to defend (all living things) who cannot speak for themselves,” said ONA natural resource committee chairman Jordan Coble.
“To see wild sheep suffering from a disease that is perpetuated by humans and one that simple measures can prevent is inexcusable, and we must do all that we can to prevent further suffering.
“We cannot stand by and watch as our wild sheep continue to die every year.”
Coble says potential legislation needs partnerships and collaboration at the local level.
The ONA says local wild sheep are at risk of being exposed to M.ovi (Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae), mange and hemorrhagic viruses like bluetongue.
The most challenging disease to manage is M.ovi, which is a bacterial strain commonly found in the nasal cavity and sinuses of domestic sheep and goats.
