Dall sheep
A species of Sheep, Also known as Stone's sheep, Fannin's sheep Scientific name : Ovis dalli Genus : Sheep
Dall sheep, A species of Sheep
Also known as:
Stone's sheep, Fannin's sheep
Scientific name: Ovis dalli
Genus: Sheep
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Dall sheep or Alaska snow sheep (Ovis dalli) is a type of sheep that lives in northwestern North America. It is named in honor of the American naturalist William Healey Dall.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Dall sheep has a herbivorous dietary pattern, primarily grazing on a range of grasses. It has a penchant for sedges and willows during the summer. With the onset of winter, lichens, mosses, and dwarf shrubs become significant dietary components.
Appearance
The dall sheep is a sheep-like mammal of medium size, distinguished by thick, white to sandy brown wool. Both genders possess curled horns, with males known for more impressive, longer spirals. The animal's overall body shape is heavyset, accentuated by muscular limbs and a solid neck. Subspecies variations mainly affect fur color and horn size.
Behavior
Dall sheep is a gregarious species, typically forming ample, sex-segregated groups outside of the breeding season. They are exceptionally nimble and well adapted to traverse the steep and rough terrain of their mountainous habitats. This behavior, paired with their keen vision, helps evade predators. They exhibit pronounced annual migratory patterns, moving to low altitudes in winter, and returning to high mountainous areas in summer.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
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