Bighorn Sheep (Ovus canadensis) There are three subspecies of bighorn sheep: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis), Desert bighorn (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) and California bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis california). Size: About 3 1/2 ft. (105 cm) at the shoulder. Weighs around 300 to 325 lb. (135 to 145 kg). Ewes (females) are smaller than rams (males). California bighorns tend to be smaller than Rocky Mountain bighorns. Distribution in North America:

Tracks front: 2 3/4"x 2 3/4"   hind: 2 3/4"x 2 3/4"

Habitat:

• Mountain slopes with sparse growths of trees and rugged "escape" terrain.
• They move to lower elevations in the winter where snow is lighter and vegetation is exposed earlier in the spring.

Notes:

• Subspecies are similar in appearance.
• Look like domestic sheep but larger and have a smooth coat.
• Brown with white belly and white rump which can be seen from a distance.
• Massive curling horns which are close to the head on the males, smaller and shorter horns on females.
• They browse and graze on a great variety of plants.

More information on this species

Be sure to check local regulations for hunting or trapping information on this species.