Bighorn sheep are one of the toughest mammals around, eking out an existence year-round in Grand Teton National Park. During the rut, bighorn males will collide horns at speeds up to 40 miles per hour!
Bighorn sheep have occupied the Teton Mountain Range for thousands of years. The Teton herd, though, is under threat. Less than 100 individuals remain, and the population is at risk of extinction because of its small size, genetic isolation, and habitat loss.
Invasive mountain goats may also compete against and spread diseases to the bighorns.
The dedicated ungulate crew at Grand Teton is studying where the sheep spend their time and what they eat to learn more about the species and its habitat. Park officials also work with other groups to create closures for winter recreation so bighorns can forage without disturbances.
Did you see a bighorn sheep or mountain goat on your visit? Please report your sighting to a ranger.
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Check out our online trail guides:
- Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com
- Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com
- Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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