The MeatEater Podcast

Ep. 698: MeatEater Radio Live! Turkey Reports and Do Aoudad Dream of Bighorn Sheep?

May 2, 2025
Froylan Hernandez, the Desert Bighorn Sheep Program Leader at Texas Parks and Wildlife, discusses the ecological consequences of Aoudad sheep on native bighorn sheep populations. Scott Thompson, Wildlife Manager in Montana, shares insights on conducting aerial big game surveys and the troubling decline of bighorn sheep due to disease. The conversation also covers thrilling turkey hunting adventures, exciting culinary uses for game meat, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these iconic species.
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ANECDOTE

Tough West Texas Aoudad Hunt

  • Cory and Corinne went on a tough Aoudad hunt in West Texas, successfully harvesting two ewes and two rams.
  • The hunt was physically challenging due to rugged terrain, heat, and cactus but provided rewarding meat and experiences.
INSIGHT

Aoudad Threaten Native Bighorns

  • Introduced in the 1950s, Aoudad populations in West Texas now number around 20,000 to 25,000, while native bighorn sheep have declined drastically.
  • Aoudads transmit pneumonia-causing bacteria and outcompete bighorns for habitat, intensifying disease and resource issues.
ADVICE

Collaboration Needed to Control Aoudad

  • Hunting alone can't lower Aoudad populations enough to protect native species due to their high density.
  • Success requires collaboration among wildlife agencies, landowners, NGOs, and hunters to reduce Aoudad numbers effectively.
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