Is It Legal to Collect Bighorn Sheep Skulls That You Find?

January 15, 2009

Question: A friend of mine was in a search of fossils in the eastern San Diego desert when he found a bighorn sheep skull shed that looked like it been there for a quite a while. Not knowing if he could keep it, he hid it somewhere close to the place where he found it. Can we keep it? (Rami A.)

Answer: No, it is not legal for a member of the public to collect or possess desert bighorn skulls without a scientific collecting permit. Only museums, schools, etc. may possess them and only with the appropriate permits allowing them to do so. If you or your friend would like to contact us with information on the skull, we will be happy to see that it is placed with a school or museum where it can be displayed for many to see, study and appreciate.