The scientific name for the bighorn sheep is ovis canadensis. In America, they live in the Rocky Mountains. They are sure-footed and well suited for the rocky mountain terrain. next

Bighorn sheep are short and stocky. This helps them adapt to their habitat. The way they are shaped helps them to stay warm on those cold mountain tops. A short, round animal has less body surface exposed than an animal that needs to stay cool like a giraffe which is tall and thin.   next

Sometimes bighorn sheep fight. They ram each other with their heads and horns. They fight only during the mating season. The ram with the biggest horns usually wins. Click the icon to see the movie. . . next

It is no surprise that baby bighorn sheep are called lambs. This lamb doesn't look like it can walk and climb steep cliffs but it can. Besides their mother's milk, they like to eat grass and flowers that grow on the side of cliffs.   next

 

This bighorn sheep is called a Dall sheep. It is whiter in color than some other kinds of bighorn sheep. Male sheep are called rams. This ram has big curly horns. They curl around almost into a complete circle.    next

A female or mother sheep is called a ewe. Ewe sounds like the word "you." Her horns are not as big as the ram's. Can you see how they are different? Click on the word Ram to go back to see how the male's horns look.  next

As you can see, the ram's horns and the ewe's horns are very different in size and shape. The ewe's body is smaller than the ram's. In nature, males are often larger than females. Males usually have brighter colors. Perhaps females blend into the environment to protect her young and the male's bright colors help by attracting the attacker. next

North American bighorns in the north are often grayish brown and have white on their rumps.   next

Bighorns travel in herds. They walk across rolling foothills and graze in the meadows. Can you tell which ones are rams and which are ewes? next

This ram is lying down. Notice how he tucks his legs under his body. This may keep them warmer on those cold mountain slopes. This one looks like he's smiling.   next

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