Since work has given me so much time off for Christmas break(paid) I decided to do a bit of a family tour before the Christmas rush and went to Edmonton – Edson – Jasper – Red Deer to visit everyone.
On the way to Jasper we got stopped by about forty Big Horn Sheep blocking the roadway as they wanted a bit of a salt lick. This was al fine and dandy. Cars were stopped on both side of the highway and people were taking pictures. After about five minutes this lost it’s charm, and the sheep needed to move to make way for traffic. But they wouldn’t. With Big Horn sheep it isn’t a good idea to get out and try to herd them. That idea is made worse as right now is there rutting time, wherein they are herding together for mating purposes. And Big Horn’s are good at slamming into things.
To try and clear the road some people were trying to honk their horns, or put the car in neutral and rev it to simulate a growl. However what worked is when I tried clapping. Rolled down put my hands out and made two loud claps. That was the thing that raised their heads and made them start to move away.
So word of advice. If are blocked by a bunch of Big Horn sheep in your car, roll down the window and clap to herd them away. But still watch for a male that may want to dent your car.
