Sheep River Wildlife Sanctuary
A large band of bighorn sheep lives year-round in this sanctuary, with its abundant grasslands and convenient escape routes
along the river canyon walls. The sanctuary is an excellent place to watch sheep feeding, interacting and on occasion, being
stalked by coyotes. During the fall, mature rams can often be closely observed from the comfort of your vehicle.
This is one of the best areas in the province for observing migrating birds of prey which follow the foothill ridges in
spring and fall. Nearly all of Alberta's birds of prey have been recorded here during migration, and golden eagles are especially
prominent.
Cougars, secretive animals which move primarily at night, have occasionally been observed in the area. Look for Columbian
ground squirrels on the grassland slopes in the summer. Further west near Bluerock Campground, American dippers and an occasional
harlequin duck can be found along the fast-flowing river.
The sanctuary is closed to vehicles Dec. 1 to May 15 to protect the winter sheep range.
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Updated: Jul 21, 2010