The Bureau of Land Management is asking rock climbers to steer clear of Long Canyon near Moab from April 1 to June 15 to protect desert bighorn sheep during lambing season.
The voluntary restriction covers all climbing areas within the canyon, including Maverick Buttress and Reptilian Wall.
Spring is a critical period for pregnant ewes and newborn lambs. Human disturbances can force these animals to abandon their preferred habitat, potentially affecting lamb survival rates.
Long Canyon provides essential “escape terrain” where bighorns navigate steep, rocky landscapes to evade predators.
