From the Field: Bighorn Sheep

By Jim Lukens - Idaho Department of Fish and Game This is the time of year to get out and enjoy, up close and personal, one of the most impressive displays of wildlife behavior in North America - the sparring of Rocky Mountain Bighorn sheep rams. Bighorn sheep are named for the male, or ram's, massive, curling horns, which can grow up to 40 or more inches long and weigh as much as 30 pounds. Because they are true horns, they are not shed annually; rather they grow throughout the animal's life. The females, or ewes, also have horns but they are shorter, more slender and curl much less than the males. They are gregarious animals and tend to gather in groups; however, the ewes, lambs and young males tend to segregate from the mature males that gather in bachelor herds. Summer habitat includes high elevation up to 10,000 feet, alpine meadows, grassy mountain slopes and foothill country, all near rugged, rocky cliffs and bluffs, allowing quick escape from predators. In winter, sheep migrate to lower elevations of 3,000 - 6,000 feet. They favor south facing slopes where annual snowfall is less and the sun and wind help clear the slopes so they don't have to paw through deep snow to feed. They have keen eyesight, and their specially-adapted hooves aid them in bounding up and down steep, rocky terrain. In November and December the rams and ewe bands meet to initiate breeding or rut. Rams battle each other for breeding rights. Mature rams will face off, stand on their rear legs, drop toward each other and fiercely crash their horns together. Battles can last for hours and eventually the defeated ram will walk away. The bone structure in their skull and their large horns absorbs the force, preventing serious injury. But occasionally the impact seems to leave them visibly stunned. Good areas to observe sheep include the river road, downstream from North Fork; along Highway 93 between Kriley Gulch and Tower Rock; the Buffalo Jump area, adjacent to Highway 75 south of Challis; and the area around Morgan Creek, north of Challis. Enjoy the spectacle, but maintain a respectful distance - binoculars and spotting scopes will enhance viewing opportunity. And, don't forget a camera for that possible wildlife photo of a lifetime. Jim Lukens is the regional supervisor for the Salmon Region.