We just returned from a short visit to the Big Horn Ranch. They now have herds of wild Merino sheep besides wild hogs and goats. And they expect more sheep.
These sheep are truly wild sheep despite their looks that could lead a hunter to believe that he is looking at a herd of domesticated sheep. They originate from Santa Cruz Island where they were trapped and then removed to the Big Horn Ranch as part of the takeover of the last private ranch on Santa Cruz Island by the U.S. Department of Forestry.
During an entire afternoon we watched a group of at least four hunters stalk a herd of these wild Merino sheep and admired the sheep elude the hunters most successfully. These sheep are very wily, fast and skilled in the use of the steep and brushy terrain. They'll give you a good run for your money.
The result of the afternoon: Sheep one, hunters zero.
In fact, we were told that many bow hunters had attempted to hunt sheep and never managed to get even close.
Chuck Wagner would very much like to reduce somewhat the number of sheep presently on the ranch in order to make room for the new arrivals scheduled for the near future.
You might be able to work out a special deal with him. Call for details; his number is in our book. You can also find it in the most recent private hunting update for wild boar. E-mail us if you need assistance.
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