Originally from Africa, this sheep species was introduced in the southwest of the United States. Also known as barbary sheep, they are well adapted to a dry climate. They can survive long periods of time without freshwater by using their metabolic water.
Fast Facts
- These sheep live in small groups, usually with one dominate male and a number of females.
- Both male and females have horns, but males horns are larger.
- Because barbary sheep live in desert areas, they tend to be crepescular, meaning they are active at dawn and dusk when the temperature is cooler.
Scientific name |
Ammotragus lervia |
Range | North Africa |
Conservation status | Vulnerable |
Diet | Herbivore |
Zoo name(s) | Daphne |
Zoo location | The Loop |