The BC Ministry of Transportation likes to warn drivers to prepare for road conditions and to keep safe on our highways.

They have issued warnings about being prepared for falling rocks, changing weather conditions, fog and snow. This time, it is for sheep.

A large herd of Bighorns were caught on video recently by highway crews blocking one side of Westside Road. The Ministry posted the video to YouTube on Thursday gaining over 1,000 views so far. 

Many Okanagan residents are well aware the Bighorns like to make appearances on that stretch of road but the Ministry wants to ensure all drivers know to look out for the beautiful wild animals.

“Keeping an eye out for wildlife on the highway while you’re driving can prevent hazards to you both,” writes the Ministry.

Here are their nine tips on how you can treat all of B.C.’s wild creatures with care and improve your safety while driving on the highway:

1. Be extra careful in the early morning, or at dusk and during the night. These times are when animals are most likely to be on the road.
2. Look ahead into the ditch for movement, or for the reflection of animal eyes in your headlights.
3. Some animals, especially deer, may panic when they see your headlights and may freeze on the road. If you see an animal, slow down until you are well past.
4. Moose will often attempt to escape from a vehicle by continuing to run along the road. This may pose a hazard to other drivers. If it is safe to do so, pull over or slow to a very low speed until the animal leaves the road.
5. Many animals travel in groups. If you see one on the road, slow down – there may be more following.
6. Slow down! If you are travelling at a slower speed, you will more likely to react in time to prevent a wildlife collision.
7. Don’t feed wildlife at any time. We need to keep wild animals wild and this is a great place we can start.
8. Pay attention. If you notice wildlife fencing or overpasses, use your road sense.
9. Above all, watch for the wildlife warning signs, which are posted at areas where animals are likely to be on the road.