Bighorn Sheep | Juvenile

Bighorn Sheep | Juvenile

Bighorn Sheep | Juvenile   Like most kids, this guy was curious.  Today, he seemed to be curious about me.  He kept edging his way closer and closer to me.  After this image was captured, he walked up and onto the same ridge where I was standing.  He stood there; blocking my exit from the ridge.  I waited a long time for him to leave.  For the whole story with all images, see Bighorn Sheep | a 7 Image Story.

Bighorn Sheep | a 7 Image Story

Bighorn Sheep | Eye HornBighorn Sheep | a 7 Image Story  Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep are found in western Canada and western United States.  These images were captured at Badlands NP and Yellowstone NP.  Bighorn Sheep are the largest wild sheep in North America.  A large ram can weigh over 300 pounds with ewes weighing less than 150 pounds.  Rams have large, tightly curled horns weighing up to 30 pounds, while ewes slightly curved, shorter horns.  They are well known for their ability to climb high, steep, rocky mountain areas where they can evade predators.  Their hooves are hard around the outside and soft on the inside giving them better traction on slippery rocky terrain.  Their tan or brown fur with white belly, rump, and muzzle blend into the mountain background.

Photographing Bighorn Sheep seems much easier than other wildlife; particularly in the national parks where they are more accustomed to seeing people. Using a vehicle as a blind and safe cover allows you to get very close without disturbing the sheep.  Their symmetric lines draw the viewfinder.

 

Each image will be posted individually this week with a bit more narrative under category Bighorn Sheep.

Click any image below for a slide show.