Peninsular Bighorn Sheep – An Anza-Borrego Icon 

The Peninsular Desert Bighorn Sheep, a symbol of resilience, calls much of Anza Borrego Desert State Park home. The fact that such a large mammal can survive in the harsh desert climate lends a mystique and wonder to this majestic animal. 

This presentation will explore the Sheep’s origins, natural habitat, and the remarkable adaptations that enable them to thrive in the desert. It will also give a glimpse into their life history, social behaviors, and the ongoing conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these magnificent creatures. 

The program includes a guided hike through Bighorn Sheep habitat, where we will search for the Sheep and the signs they leave behind. If we’re lucky, we may even catch a glimpse of this iconic species in its natural environment. 

• Rare Wildlife Encounter – A chance to see the elusive Peninsular Bighorn Sheep in their natural habitat.
• Expert-Guided Adventure – Learn from passionate naturalists and experienced wildlife trackers.
• Deep Nature Connection – Immerse yourself in Anza-Borrego’s beauty and wildlife tracking.
• Inspiring Conservation Insight – Discover how you can help protect these majestic animals.

REGISTER TODAY!

Date/Time/Location:  

Lecture: Friday, April 4, 2025, 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.  

In-person lecture: ABF Office (587 Palm Canyon Dr. #122, Borrego Springs, CA 92004). Zoom option available for those unable to attend in person (link will be sent upon registration).   

Field Trip: Saturday, April 5, 2025, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 

Meet at the ABF Store: 587 Palm Canyon Dr. #110, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 (in The Mall, next to Calico’s). From there we will carpool/caravan to the field site in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. 

Cost: 

Lecture Only: 

ABF Member: $8
Non-Member: $10
Student: Free 

Lecture + Field Trip: 

ABF Member: $45
Non-Member: $55
Student: $25 

Scholarships: A limited number of scholarships are available for those with financial need. If you’d like to request a scholarship, please reach out to [email protected] with a two–to three-paragraph description of why you’d like to attend this program and your need for a scholarship.    

Presenters: 

Donna Roy and Arun Balakrishnan fell in love with Anza-Borrego when they accidentally first visited the park almost two decades ago and luckily saw Bighorn Sheep on eleven consecutive weekends. Their day jobs as AI/robotics engineer and software security engineer brought them to San Diego. Meeting the Bighorn Sheep started them down the path of learning about ecology and wildlife tracking. Over the years, they have enjoyed volunteering for the annual Bighorn Sheep count, Flat-tailed horned lizard surveys, Christmas bird count, Bio Blitz, tidepool surveys, and more. They are volunteer naturalists for the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, certified California Naturalists via the University of California Environmental Stewards program, and certified wildlife trackers via the Tracker Certification North America Track & Sign certification program. They have served on the board of the San Diego Tracking Team and helped start wildlife track and sign surveys in Anza-Borrego.  

Cancellation Policy: 

Cancellation requests must be received at least seven days before the event if you wish to receive a credit or refund. Please note that ABF may cancel a program due to low attendance. If ABF cancels a program, we will issue a full credit or refund.