Denver Zoo is actively involved in the conservation of mountain goats and bighorn sheep on Mount Evans, a popular recreation area near the city. The zoo’s Field Conservation team works to address human-wildlife conflict and promote the well-being of these iconic Colorado species.
Conservation Efforts
The Denver Zoo’s conservation efforts on Mount Evans focus on discouraging mountain goats and bighorn sheep from congregating in high-human use areas. This is crucial as the recreation area attracts over 200,000 visitors each year, exposing the wildlife to potential hazards.
Studying Human Impact on Wildlife Behavior
The zoo’s Field Conservation team is conducting research to understand the impact of human presence on the behavior of mountain goats and bighorn sheep. By studying how these animals respond to different levels of human activity, the team can develop effective strategies to mitigate conflicts.
Experimenting with Deterrents
In addition to research, the Denver Zoo is experimenting with various deterrents to keep mountain goats and bighorn sheep away from parking lots, roads, and other high-traffic areas. One such deterrent is the use of mountain lion urine, which can discourage the animals from approaching these potentially dangerous zones.
Visitor Information
Mount Evans Recreation Area
The Mount Evans Recreation Area is a popular destination for visitors seeking stunning views of Colorado’s mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and glacier valleys. This area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the iconic Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
Denver Zoo Exhibits
While the Denver Zoo does not have a dedicated exhibit for mountain goats or bighorn sheep, visitors can explore various exhibits that showcase the diversity of Colorado’s wildlife. Some of the notable exhibits include Tropical Discovery, Primate Panorama, and Northern Shores.
Up-Close Looks
The Denver Zoo offers special experiences that allow visitors to get up close with some of the animals. However, these experiences do not currently include opportunities to interact with mountain goats or bighorn sheep.
Important Facts
Human-Wildlife Conflict
Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are susceptible to various hazards when in close proximity to humans. These include increased stress, behavioral changes, disease risk, and exposure to human food and waste. The Denver Zoo’s conservation efforts aim to mitigate these risks and maintain a healthy balance between wildlife and human activity.
Disease Transmission
Large congregations of mountain goats and bighorn sheep can lead to increased disease transmission, particularly pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae. This disease can have high mortality rates for bighorn sheep populations, making it a significant concern for wildlife managers.
References
Denver Zoo. (2022). Keeping Wildlife Wild on Mount Evans. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/zootales/keeping-wildlife-wild-on-mount-evans/
Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Habitats. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/exhibits/
Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Up-Close Looks. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/up-close-looks/
Denver Zoo. (n.d.). Colorado. Retrieved from https://denverzoo.org/colorado/.