Stone’s sheep (Ovis dalli stonei) is a thinhorn sheep found in the remote mountains of northern British Columbia and the southern Yukon. Adult rams weigh 150–250 pounds (68–113 kg) and stand 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 m) at the shoulder. Colouration varies from nearly white to grey or brown, and rams carry thick curling horns of rich amber or golden hue. The species’ striking appearance and rugged habitat make Stone’s sheep one of North America’s most coveted mountain trophies.
Stone’s sheep hunts in Canada are true wilderness adventures. Outfitters operate in remote drainages accessed by bush plane, horse and backpack. Hunts run from August through early October and are conducted by spot‑and‑stalk on foot, with horses used to reach glassing points. Because these sheep inhabit open alpine basins and ridgelines, shots often range from 150 to 350 yards. A lightweight, flat‑shooting rifle or a heavy‑draw bow is recommended; hunters must be comfortable shooting at steep uphill or downhill angles.
Stone’s sheep populations are generally stable, but their limited range and low numbers warrant careful management. British Columbia and Yukon issue a small number of tags each year and require hunters to harvest only mature rams. Trophy fees fund habitat conservation, predator control and monitoring of disease transmission from domestic sheep. Because rams and ewes both possess horns, guides help hunters distinguish legal rams by horn thickness and curl. Ethical shot placement is emphasised to prevent wounded animals from escaping into inaccessible terrain.
Stone’s sheep are partial migrants, moving between high summer ranges and lower winter ranges, often visiting mineral licks along the way. Herds are usually small; rams form bachelor groups, while ewes and lambs travel separately. The horns of rams grow incrementally each year, forming growth rings that allow age estimation. Stone’s sheep are part of the continental thinhorn complex along with Dall’s sheep; some rams exhibit intermediate “Fannin” colouration, blending traits of both species.
Stone’s Sheep can be found in the following location:
Stone’s Sheep has the following variations:
- (Varieties to be confirmed)
