Farm and Ranch News

Predatory livestock losses drop in Montana

Posted: Feb 17, 2012 7:36 PM by Evan Weborg (KXLH Helena)
Updated: Feb 17, 2012 7:52 PM

HELENA- The loss of livestock due to predators in Montana varies year by year, but a quick look over the past four years shows the trends are moving a positive direction.

More than 600 head of livestock were claimed as a loss in 2008 and 2009, while the combined numbers for 2010 and 2011 stand at less than 300 head.

"There is no explanation for the change but that it has been a positive to not have any large number of sheep killed in the past year or two," Montana Livestock Loss Board Administrator George Edwards said.

The figures include cattle, sheep, goats, horses and llamas and it should be noted that the 2011 totals will not be officially finalized until May.

Edwards noted that 2012 is off to a slow start with only one loss being claimed at this time.

Totals reported as a loss: