Episode 42: New Mexico Bighorn Sheep (Sheep Week 2026)

Bighorn sheep are one of New Mexico’s most iconic wildlife specie and managing them takes careful, science-based work. In this episode of the New Mexico Wildlife Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Tom Batter and Dr. Nicole Tatman to talk about the ongoing bighorn sheep research and management happening across the state. We discuss current population monitoring, disease research, habitat challenges, and how data collected in the field guides management decisions. Dr. Batter and Dr. Tatman also share why bighorn sheep conservation is complex, what success looks like, and how long-term research helps ensure healthy herds for the future. Whether you’re a hunter, wildlife enthusiast, or just curious about how wildlife management works in New Mexico, this episode offers an inside look at the science behind bighorn sheep conservation. If you're interested in the Bighorn Sheep Management plan visit: https://wildlife.dgf.nm.gov/hunting/information-by-animal/big-game/bighorn-sheep/