Ammotragus – Barbary sheep

A rugged and powerful wild sheep native to the mountains of North Africa, from Morocco and Algeria across to Egypt and Sudan. It is one of those animals perfectly built for survival in harsh, rocky landscapes where few others can endure. At first sight, the Barbary sheep looks like a cross between a goat and a sheep, which makes sense because it belongs to a unique branch of the caprid family tree. What makes it truly memorable, though, is its dramatic mane of shaggy hair that cascades from the throat, chest, and forelegs, giving it an imposing, almost regal appearance.

Physically, the Barbary sheep is a strong, sure-footed climber. Both sexes have curved, ridged horns that sweep backward in elegant arcs, sometimes exceeding 80 cm (31 in) in length. Their coats are sandy-brown, blending seamlessly with their desert surroundings, and their broad hooves are adapted for gripping steep, craggy slopes. This camouflage, combined with their climbing ability, makes them hard to spot in the wild.

Ecologically, Barbary sheep are well-adapted to dry, arid environments. They can survive long periods without drinking water, getting much of their moisture from the plants they eat—shrubs, grasses, and herbs that grow in scattered patches across rocky terrain. This adaptation allows them to thrive in places where other large grazers would struggle. They are mainly active in the early morning and late afternoon, resting during the heat of the day in the shade of cliffs or boulders. In their natural range, they face threats from habitat loss and hunting, but their adaptability has also made them successful outside Africa.