The Economic Times

In 1968, Hawaii introduced 8 mouflon sheep for trophy hunting. 36 years later, thousands were threatening native vegetation

In 1968, eight mouflon sheep were introduced into Hawaii Island for hunting purposes. By 2004, their numbers soared to over 2,500, causing dire consequences for the native vegetation. Their relentless grazing and trampling affected trees and various plants across multiple ecosystems, presenting a significant conservation dilemma as managing this rapidly multiplying herd proved challenging. A once-admired game source quickly morphed into a serious ecological concern.