Pronghorn plentiful in grasslands around Prescott

PRESCOTT, Ariz. (AP) - The Arizona Game and Fish Department wants to move pronghorn from 1 of the largest herds in the state to supplement populations in southeastern Arizona.

Game specialist Erin Butler says between 1,000 and 1,350 pronghorn live on the grasslands of central Yavapai County, representing about 10% of the state's population. She says reducing the population could increase the fawns' ability to survive.

John Millican of the Arizona Antelope Foundation says the Sonoita herd in southeastern Arizona has dwindled to about 18 pronghorn, while the San Rafael herd has about seven with one buck that likely is too old to breed.

The Daily Courier reports that state officials won't attempt to capture pronghorn in the Prescott area this year.

Butler says the department plans to wait until early 2014.

Information from: The Daily Courier, http://www.dcourier.com

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