Studies show that things are looking up for a group of western Colorado desert bighorn sheep.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologists have documented that the animal has a thriving population in the Dolores River Canyon, the agency reported Friday.
Biologists in 2010 and 2011 captured and moved desert sheep from south of Slickrock to the middle Dolores River Canyon about 20 miles north near the Paradox Valley.
The location was chosen because few desert bighorn had been seen in the area and there was favorable habitat. Desert bighorn, which are slightly smaller than the high-country Rocky Mountain bighorns, are native to arid regions.
Fifteen desert bighorn fitted with GPS collars were transplanted in each 2010 and 2011.
One of the desert bighorn returned to Slickrock and another died. But biologists were pleased to learn that the other newcomers found a band of desert sheep in the area and had joined it.
In come cases, herds will not accept transplants, biologists said. Acceptance increases genetic diversity, which is favorable for long-term survival.
Its estimated the Dolores River herd now numbers 60 sheep, including the transplants.
Biologists will continue to track the sheep to learn more about the type and expanse of terrain they use. GPS collars last about three years.
No more transplanting of sheep is anticipated, biologists said.
Two other desert sheep herds exist in the state in Colorado National Monument west of Grand Junction and in Escalante/Dominguez Canyon west of Delta.
