Counting Sheep
Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Lions in the American West
Author(s)
Abstract
In this case study, students hear arguments on both sides of a debate over wildlife management and must integrate ethical and scientific perspectives to formulate their own opinions. The case as written is most appropriate for an environmental ethics or policy course, but could also be used in an introductory or interdisciplinary environmental studies course.
Objectives
- To teach students to formulate an opinion on an issue by taking ethics, science, and politics into consideration.
Keywords
Bighorn sheep; Ovis Canadensis; mountain lion; Puma concolor; predator-prey; predator control; population dynamics; endangered species; extinction; culling; hunting; animal rights; Sierra Nevada MountainsTopical Areas
Ethics, Policy issues, Scientific argumentation, Social issuesEducational Level
High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper divisionFormat
PDF, PowerPointType / Methods
DebateLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Environmental Science | Ecology | Wildlife Management |
Date Posted
04/17/09Teaching Notes
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Teaching notes are intended to help teachers select and adopt a case. They typically include a summary of the case, teaching objectives, information about the intended audience, details about how the case may be taught, and a list of references and resources.
Supplemental Materials
This case includes an optional supplemental PowerPoint presentation. It is recommended that instructors either assign a pre-class reading (namely, Martin, G., 1998, "Cougars Wiping Out Sierra Bighorn Sheep, Scientists Say," San Francisco Chronicle) or use this PowerPoint in class to present the necessary background information for the case.
Bighorn Power Point