Numerous exotic barbary sheep (also known as aoudad), native of North Africa and deserts of the Middle East and Asia now inhabit Big Bend National Park.  Founding animals were stocked on Texas private game ranches, and reproduction and range expansion allowed them to invade Big Bend National park.  They have likely been present since the 1970's, and now occur parkwide.  Barbary sheep compete with native Desert Bighorn Sheep, and threaten the fledgling restoration effort to bring previously extirpated bighorn sheep back to their native land.  This photo includes over 20 barbary sheep at one location.
<ul><li>Keywords: wildlife; exotic; non-native; bighorn sheep; Natural resources management; Exotic Species</li></ul>
NPS Staff
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