Is a species of caprid (goat-antelope) native to rocky mountains in North Africa. Six subspecies have been described. Although it is rare in its native North Africa, it has been introduced to North America, southern Europe, and elsewhere.
Barbary sheep stand 80 to 100 cm (2.6 to 3.3 ft) tall at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 140 kg (88 to 309 lb). They are sandy-brown, darkening with age, with a slightly lighter underbelly and a darker line along the back. Upper parts and the outer parts of the legs are a uniform reddish brown or greyish brown. There is some shaggy hair on the throat (extending down to the chest in males) and a sparse mane. Their horns have a triangular cross-section. The horns curve outward, backward, then inward, and can exceed 40 inches in length. The horns are fairly smooth, with slight wrinkles evident at the base as the animal matures.
Fun Facts
- Sheep are grazers, chewing their cud. They have a four-chambered stomach that allows them to ruminate.
- Male sheep are called rams. Females are called ewes.
- Barbary sheep live in arid environments and acquire much of their water from the plants they eat. However, they will readily drink water if it is available.
Ecology and Conservation
Barbary sheep populations have declined drastically over much of their native range due to hunting for their skins, meat, and sinew.
In some areas where Barbary sheep have been introduced, there is concern that they may compete with the native bighorn sheep for food resources.
