KETCHUM, Idaho (AP) — A central Idaho sheep rancher whose flock sustained losses to wolves each spring during lambing season moved them this year from his ranch near Carey to a new area where wolves aren't present.

The Idaho Mountain Express reports that John Peavey moved 1,800 ewes in April to the desert about 20 miles south. Peavey says he lost a couple lambs to coyotes but none to wolves. Wildlife Services says that since 2008 wolves killed 153 sheep and three calves in the Flat Top Ranch area in 19 incidents.

The agency killed 15 wolves in response. Peavey says that during lambing season the flock is spread out so lambs and ewes can bond. Wood River Wolf Project spokeswoman Susanne Stone says she's pleased Peavey has changed his lambing practices.

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