Siberian argali

The Siberian argali (Ovis ammon) is the largest wild sheep species, native to the highlands of Central Asia. The name "argali" is Mongolian for "ram".12

Key Characteristics:

• Size: Mature rams can stand up to 125 cm (49 inches) at the shoulder and weigh over 140 kg (300 pounds). Smaller desert populations are around 90 cm (35 inches) tall and weigh less than 80 kg (180 pounds). Females are about one-third lighter than males.1
• Horns: Both sexes have horns, which are particularly long in rams. The horns of the Siberian argali are massive, though somewhat shorter than those of the Pamir argali (Marco Polo sheep), which can reach up to 1.8 meters (6 feet).1
• Appearance: Rams develop a distinct coat before the mating season, often featuring neck ruffs and rump patches. These coats vary among subspecies.1
• Behavior: Argalis are fast runners with excellent vision, primarily escaping predators by fleeing. They are highly social, with rams and ewes living in separate herds except during mating season. They are adapted to extreme cold, aridity, and high elevations.1
• Conservation: Argalis are considered a near-threatened species due to uncontrolled killing, poaching, and habitat loss from livestock herding and other human activities.1