[hx8]

Sheep aren't native to the US. Doesn't the entire species threaten the viability and health of native populations because it is competing for resources that native animals could be consuming? I don't see how having a new type of sheep is a step too far.

[kyleamazza]

The problem is that we don't (as far as I know) have the tools or knowledge on how to accurately assess the impact. So, the more conservative option of "don't mess with it" makes sense here, considering that other species' introductions to other ecosystems have been disastrous.

[Teknomancer]

Ummm, no. The species of bighorn sheep native to the Rocky Mountains is scientifically referred to as Ovis canadensis canadensis. This is one of several subspecies of bighorn sheep, distinguished by its habitat, physical characteristics, and behavior, adapted to the rugged terrain and climate of the Rocky Mountains stretching from Canada to the southwestern United States.