Public help is being sought after dogs were responsible for killing California bighorn sheep.
In two separate cases in mid-December, the bodies of wild sheep were found in Okanagan Lake in the Estamont area of North Westside.
“It’s been a challenging situation,” said Dave Cox, conservation officer, of the investigation.
In the first case, a woman found a dead sheep in the lake near Nerie Road, with two dogs pacing along the beach. A few days later, a man came across dogs chasing a sheep into the water.
“We have had proactive patrols to identify the dogs and we are seeking public assistance,” said Cox.
It’s possible the sheep were exhausted after being chased by the dogs, ran into the water for safety and drowned.
“The dogs could have kept them offshore,” said Cox.
Dogs chasing wildlife are a common problem throughout the region.
“We need dog owners to be responsible,” said Cox.
If the owners of the two North Westside dogs were identified, they could face $345 fines.
“If they are repeat offenders, there could be court action,” said Cox.
And in extreme case, dogs found to be repeatedly stalking wildlife can be destroyed.
Cox hopes awareness about the December cases will lead to public tips.
“These dogs belong somewhere and people know where they belong,” he said.
Anyone with information about wildlife being harassed by dogs can call 1-877-952-7277.
The California bighorn sheep population is limited to just a few areas of the Okanagan because of habitat reduction, changes in predation mortality and historical hunting trends.
“The invasion of non-native plants, intensive cattle grazing, fire suppression, timber harvesting, and land development are factors that have limited access to forage plants,” states the Ministry of Environment.
“Sheep survival depends on familiarity with their habitat and they are slow to re-occupy vacant habitat.”