Argali (Ovis ammon)

The Argali

The Argali is classified as a vulnerable species (2003). The name Argali is the Mongolian word for sheep. They are found in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, China, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

The Argali is a wild sheep, ranging between 120 to 200 cms in length. They can weigh anywhere between 65 kilograms and 180 kilograms. They stand between 90 to 120 cms tall at the shoulder. They are light-brown to a golden-brown colour, with a white rump and white legs. The males have impressive horns, unfortunately male argali's are hunted for these horns. The females also have horns, but they do not grow to such extent as the males.

Did you know? The Argali is the largest of all wild sheep.

The Argali is a herbivore, and feeds on grasses, seeds, roots and such food types. During the winter on snow covered mountains, they will retreat to lower ground in the search of food.

They inhabit mountains like most other wild sheep do. They will live in herds of anywhere ranging between 2 to 100 argalis. They are commonly found in the range of 1,300 to 6,100 metres above sea level.

The gestation period is between 150 to 160 days where 1 to 2 young are born. After giving birth the mother and lamb will separate from the herd for a period of up to a week.

Further Information on the Argali:

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Bibliography:

e.g. Jones, P & Russel, T. Studies on Neotropical Fauna and Environment, 2002. Vol. 37. Page 35-48.