Two bighorn rams graze near a railroad track used by a mining company near Spike Buck recreation site in the Arkansas River canyon, Colorado


Desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) are adapted to their dry, rugged environment. They're water savers, able to survive without drinking for a time period when water is scarce; they obtain the needed moisture from the grasses, forbs and shrubs they browse. Excellent climbers, they're often seen on steep slopes or rocky outcrops. The horns of the desert bighorns are generally smaller and lighter than those of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. They're smaller-bodied and longer-legged as well.


Size: 5200px × 3467px
Location: Bighorn Sheep Canyon near Canon City, Colorado
Photo credit: © Denise Dethlefsen / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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