Tips for Tracking Bighorn Sheep After a Shot?

Locating the Blood Trail

When tracking bighorn sheep, it’s essential to locate the initial blood trail as quickly as possible. This can be done by looking for a concentration of blood near the point of impact. Check for broken branches, scratched bark, and disturbed leaves or grasses, which can indicate the direction the animal took after being shot. Move in the direction of the blood trail, taking note of any changes in elevation or terrain that might affect the sheep’s movement.

Following the Trail

As you follow the blood trail, move at a slow and deliberate pace, scanning the terrain for any sign of the sheep. Pay particular attention to areas where the terrain funnels the animal into a narrow space, such as a ravine or a steep slope. In these areas, the sheep is more likely to leave behind visible signs of its movement, making it easier to track. When the trail appears to go cold, stop and reassess your position, looking for any sign of the sheep that might have been missed.

Setting Up a Tracking Post

If the initial trail goes cold, consider setting up a makeshift tracking post to monitor the area and wait for signs of the sheep. This can be done by finding a vantage point with a clear view of the surrounding terrain and setting up a portable chair or resting place. Bring food, water, and warm clothing, and be prepared to spend several hours or even days waiting for signs of the sheep. When the sheep is spotted, be prepared to move quickly and quietly to reestablish the blood trail and continue tracking the animal.