A Montana rancher has pleaded guilty to charges of wildlife trafficking and conspiracy after illegally using biological tissue from wild sheep in Central Asia and the United States to breed large hybrid sheep for commercial sale.
Arthur “Jack” Schubarth appeared before a federal judge in Great Falls on Tuesday, admitting to his role in a scheme that began in 2013. According to court documents, Schubarth and at least five others sought to create “giant sheep hybrids” by cross-breeding different species, aiming to supply private hunting preserves in Texas where hunters pay premiums to hunt trophy animals.
The operation involved obtaining tissue and testicles from wild sheep, including the Marco Polo argali sheep—the world’s largest species—native to Kyrgyzstan. Schubarth secured cloned embryos of the Marco Polo argali from a laboratory using this illegally obtained material. These embryos were implanted into ewes, resulting in the birth of a pure Marco Polo argali sheep named “Montana Mountain King.” The offspring’s semen was then used to artificially inseminate other ewes, producing larger and more valuable sheep hybrids.
Federal prosecutors highlighted the extensive nature of the conspiracy, emphasizing the illegal use of wildlife resources from Central Asia and the potential impacts on conservation efforts. The case underscores ongoing challenges in combating wildlife trafficking and the illegal trade of animal parts used for commercial gain.
Schubarth’s guilty plea may lead to significant penalties under federal law, reflecting the seriousness of wildlife trafficking offenses. Sentencing is expected in the coming months, with potential implications for others involved in the scheme.
Reference(s):
Animal tissue unlawfully used to breed 'giant' sheep for sale
cgtn.com
