Bighorn Sheep - Pictures

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Bighorn Sheep - Predators

Bighorn sheep are usual prey for wolves, coyotes, bears, bobcats and lynx. Small lambs are an easy prey for eagles, foxes and domestic dogs. But the most dangerous hunter is human.

Bighorn Sheep - Importance for Humans

Bighorn sheep are prized among the Native Americans and early European settlers for their very palatable meat. The large horns of these animals are used for making handles and are very popular as trophies and ceremonial items.

Bighorn Sheep - Reproduction

During the rut season in the autumn and early winter Bighorn rams snort loudly to attract ewes. Ewes breed during their second or third year and rams have to wait until they are 7-8 years old due to competition. Homosexual activity often occurs in groups of males when the dominant animal behaves like a courting male and the subordinate one plays the role of an estrous female.

After the gestation period of 150-180 days, females give birth to 1-2 lambs. Little lambs form herds on their own coming to mothers only to suckle. They are weaned at 4-6 months of age depending on the quality of food available. The survival rate among lambs is very low because of harsh climates in the desert and rocks. Furthermore, Bighorn sheep have no immunity to viruses introduced by domestic livestock.

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