LEWISTON, ID – Idaho Department of Fish and Game will conduct helicopter-based capture operations for bighorn sheep from Feb. 19 through Feb. 24 along portions of the Snake and Salmon rivers.

Residents and recreationists may notice low-flying helicopters in Game Management Units 11, 13, 14 and 19 during that time.

According to Fish and Game, the purpose of the operation is to safely capture and radio-collar bighorn sheep to monitor their movement patterns and survival. Biologists use the data collected from radio collars to better understand bighorn sheep ecology and to inform future management decisions.

The agency said efforts are made to minimize disturbance to the animals and reduce the expenditure of their energy reserves. Officials added that human and wildlife safety is the top priority and that multiple precautions are taken to reduce risks throughout the operation.

For more information, the Clearwater Regional Office can be reached at (208) 799-5010.