JACKSON, Wyo. — Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) has extended two existing wildlife closures through May 15 to protect bighorn sheep because of persistent winter conditions and deep snowpack at high elevations throughout the Teton Range.
The existing park closures are near the summits of Static Peak, Mount Hunt and Prospectors Mountain. Recreational use in these areas is prohibited during this time, according to a press release from the park.
These winter closures have been in effect since the late 1990s and early 2000s to limit disturbance of wintering bighorn sheep.
GTNP also asks recreationists to continue to voluntarily avoid bighorn sheep winter zones within the park through mid-May.
“Wildlife, including bighorn sheep, need help from all of us after a tough winter,” said Park Superintendent Chip Jenkins. “We are asking people to be actively engaged in the stewardship of these animals, because their survival depends on it.”
Spring is a challenging time of year for all wildlife, as winter fat reserves have been depleted and new plant growth is minimally available. Bighorn sheep need to conserve their energy in order to survive.
Be a steward for bighorn sheep and other wildlife by giving them the space they need. Maps of the closures and zones can be found at the GTNP website and tetonsheep.org.
