KALISPELL, Mont. (AP) -- State wildlife officials say eight bighorn sheep rams were killed when lightning struck a Ponderosa pine tree on Wild Horse Island in Flathead Lake.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks Warden Capt. Lee Anderson says the rams died within the last week to 10 days.

Six of the sheep were found in a 15-foot circle around the tree, while two others were found a short distance away. Anderson says several rams had burns on their hooves and legs.

Wildlife manager Jim Williams says the sheep ranged in age from 3½ to 8½ years.

The 2,100-acre island has a population of about 200 bighorn sheep. This spring, about 40 sheep were captured on the island and relocated in an effort to control the population.

Copyright 2010 The AP.