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Bighorn Sheep
Although Bighorn sheep (Ovis
Canadensis) prefer the
grasses and sedges found in open meadows, they find safety on rocky
ledges and rugged terrain. They are nimble and have a well-developed
sense of balance, allowing them to seemingly walk on sheer cliffs and
mountain sides. Newborn lambs are prey for eagles, mountain lions and
bobcats. The tremendous horns of the male sheep are for the purpose of
defending from predators and in battling among themselves for control of
the harem. Battling rams will get a running start and crash head first,
resulting in a sound similar to a rifle shot.
 Where
to find them
Bighorn are not often seen in Yellowstone, mainly because of the limited
areas they are found. Look for them along the cliffs and steep hills on
the road from Mammoth to Gardiner. Rocky outcrops in the Lamar Valley
are also good places to look.
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