DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP

Desert Bighorn Sheep are rare on the Navajo Nation, and only found along our northern and western boundaries. Their preferred habitat is the dry, rugged canyonlands along the San Juan, Colorado, and Little Colorado Rivers. The Department of Fish and Wildlife has put a great deal of effort into saving this species from extirpation. In the 1970s, there were less than 10 Bighorn in one population on Navajolands. Now we have over 300 sheep in three viable populations. Desert Bighorn Sheep are named 'Tse'tah Dibe' in the Navajo Language, which translates to 'Sheep of the Rocks'. Bighorn sheep are sacred to the Navajo People. The horn of the sheep is used in two traditional ceremonies to restore emotional balance to patients.