Big Horn Sheep

DARA HEWARD

This male ram desert big horn sheep (Ovis canadensis) is adept at climbing and maneuvering about rocky, rugged cliffs. He has adaptations that allow him to jump easily. Some of these include having keen vision, split hooves that aid him in balance, and rough hooves for grip. He has been spending a lot of time jumping from rock to rock following a female (ewe) around. Who knows, maybe we will see a lamb or two in the near future if we're lucky.

A Big Horn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) spotted at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum by the Suspension Bridge off the Main Trail. This Ram (male) was captured jumping by nature photographer Jeff Colling.

Photo by Jeff Colling

You can follow Jeff on Instagram at @arizona_nature_photos.