Barbary sheep

Description

The barbary sheep is a ruminant with sandy-brown short hair that allows it to blend in with the desert surroundings it inhabits. It has a dense beard and a very thick tail, as well as large horns that help it defend itself from its predators. Its limbs are adapted to life in rocky and steep areas and it can walk up almost vertical surfaces.

Ethology

The barbary sheep are diurnal, solitary and sexually gregarious: in other words, they only join together during the mating season, normally in herds of uo to 12 individuals. They are not territorial, as they move through many large areas depending on food availability.

Interesting facts

The barbary sheep was introduced in various regions of Spain for hunting purposes, including the island of La Palma, where it quickly reached the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, endangering endemic species of flora. They are currently a significant invasive species in Spain, whilst in their original habitat they are seriously threatened by poaching and habitat destruction.