Julien’s research is focused on how movement and habitat selection of Stone’s sheep (Ovis dalli stonei) changes during hunting season. His study region, the Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park, BC, is the same place where the reputed ungulate ecologist, Dr. Valerius Geist, did his seminal ethology work on this species. Much has changed in the world since Val’s research in the late 1960’s, but sheep hunting remains a common activity in the area. Julien’s work asks whether sheep respond to the advent of hunting season through adaptive movement and habitat selection, and whether behaviour responses differ based on demographic-specific factors. The results of his research will help support the sustainable use and management of Stone’s sheep. Julien is partnered with the Province of British Columbia, Spatsizi River Outfitters, the Tahltan Central Government, the Wild Sheep Foundation, and the Wild Sheep Society of BC.
Email: gullo@ualberta.ca
A young ram Stone’s sheep being sampled and prepped for collaring
Field work picture, Clean-up activities following a successful net-gun capture
– photos by Julien Gullo