Help protect Dall’s sheep in Kluane National Park and Reserve

HAINES JUNCTION, YT, May 1, 2025 – Parks Canada and the Kluane National Park Management Board are working to protect the declining population of Dall’s sheep at Thechàl Dhâl’, also known as Sheep Mountain.

Parks Canada is now enforcing two closures in Kluane National Park and Reserve (NPR) to minimize disturbance of Dall’s sheep in the Thechàl Dhâl’ area:

• The Thechàl Dhâl’ Ridge Route area (yellow area on the attached map) is closed to all access during lambing season from May 1 to June 15. Dogs are prohibited in this area.
• The face of Thechàl Dhâl’ (red area on the attached map) is closed to all public access year-round. Dogs are prohibited in this area.

Anyone travelling through the Thechàl Dhâl’ Ridge Route Area from May 1 to June 15, or on the face of Thechàl Dhâl’ (at any time), and anyone bringing dogs in either of these areas may face charges under the Canada National Parks Act, mandatory court appearances, and fines of up to $25,000. This does not apply to Kluane First Nation citizens accessing their traditional territory for subsistence purposes.

Parks Canada manages human-wildlife interactions for the safety and well-being of both people and wildlife. Parks Canada has been monitoring Dall’s sheep in the park since 1977 and sheep surveys over the past three years show unprecedently low numbers of adult sheep. These low numbers are in part due to the extremely low numbers of lambs counted from 2019 to 2022. The Kluane National Park and Reserve Management Plan identifies that these areas be managed to protect sheep, and these closures are an important step to fulfilling that commitment.

Sheep populations in Kluane NPR are affected by climate, predators, and an increase in extreme weather events – factors that are difficult to control. Research has shown that the presence of people and dogs can also disrupt activities that are important to a sheep’s survival, like foraging, resting, and taking care of young. We are focused on protecting and conserving wildlife while enabling safe and enjoyable visitor experiences in protected places. During lambing season, alternate hikes in the area include Sheep Creek Trail, Bullion Plateau, Soldier’s Summit, and Shepherd’s Knoll.

By working together, we can help protect wildlife. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.