Altai mountain sheep are considered the largest on the planet. They have significant differences from the animals that many people are used to seeing. The weight of a lamb can be 180 kilograms. At the same time, the horns alone account for 35 kilograms. This variety is considered very rare. Therefore, international organizations are taking measures to save the population.
Description of the Altai ram
These rams are large in size and have a proportional build. In height, males at the withers grow up to 122 centimeters, and females - up to 114.The weight of males reaches 200 kilograms, while females weigh 103. These animals with large horns have a spectacular appearance. In old males they reach 151 centimeters. At the same time, the girth at the base reaches 55 centimeters, and the weight is 22 kilograms.
Animal horns perform important biological functions. They provide protection from predatory animals. This part of the body is also used by males to fight for mating rights during the reproductive period.
Habitat
Today there are 3 separate populations of animals. They are located on the border of Mongolia and China, on the Saigyulem ridge and in the mountainous regions near the upper reaches of the Chulyshman River. Most often, sheep live in the mountain steppes near the foot of the ridges. They also settle in open areas of slopes at an altitude of 2-3 thousand meters above sea level. There is no forest vegetation in these places.
Number of individuals and reasons for population decline
At the beginning of the last century, the number of mountain sheep was 600 individuals. A little later, their number suddenly decreased to 245. With the help of special conservation measures and the relocation of adult animals to reserves, their number was slightly increased to 320.
The main reasons for the decline in animal numbers include the following:
- Human influence on ecology. Today, Altai sheep are gradually being forced out of their usual places. In these areas, people graze domestic goats or yaks.Therefore, wild individuals are forced to look for new places.
- Poaching. Although Altai sheep are considered protected animals, some of them are still shot. This occurs throughout the entire habitat of individuals.
- Climate deterioration. Over the past decades, climate conditions have become increasingly deteriorating. Lack of food negatively affects the animal population, which leads to their death in the winter.
Social structure and breeding season
Mountain sheep are considered calm animals. They are not aggressive towards other species. Lambs that live in a herd constantly follow each other and feel the need to communicate with their relatives. The rutting period for animals begins in October and ends in mid-January. For individuals that live closer, this stage is considered longer. Rams are polygamous. Males engage in battles, clashing horns for the right to mate with the female.
In females, maturity occurs at 2 years, and in males - only at 5 years. After establishing dominance, the rams approach the females. Mating occurs 2-3 weeks after the start of the rut. Sometimes it is carried out within 2 months after the end of this period.
Pregnancy in females lasts a little more than 165 days. Cubs are born in late March or April. Most often, 1 lamb is born. However, sometimes twins are born. In rare cases, up to 5 babies may be born. Newborn cubs weigh 2700-4600 grams. They gain weight quickly. By the age of 1 year it increases 10 times. Females gain maximum weight by the age of two, and males grow for another 2 years.
Diet
These sheep are considered herbivores. The basis of their diet is considered to be herbs and greens.Females and young rams live in mountainous areas, where the quality of food is significantly worse than on the plain. Adults choose places much lower for feeding. There is a lot of quality food there.
Altai lambs have managed to adapt to life in extreme conditions - they are able to withstand wind and drought.
On average, the daily amount of food is 16-19 kilograms. In this case, the diet changes taking into account the height and area of the terrain. In the highlands, the diet is based on grass and sedge. At the middle level, the menu includes shrubs and herbs. Individual habitats include shoots, flowers, leaves and fruits.
Altai sheep need water. Individuals who live at high altitudes do not experience problems with this. If animals live in arid areas, they are able to travel long distances to find water.
Enemies of argali in the natural environment
Adult females are large in size and capable of running fast. Therefore, they do not require special protection from predators. Therefore, they can live near plains. At the same time, females and young lambs need to live higher. Sometimes they are able to defend themselves with the help of horns.
In their natural environment, Altai sheep encounter the following predators:
- Gray wolves;
- cheetahs;
- leopards;
- snow leopards;
- Snow leopards.
Small lambs suffer from coyotes. Also, even some birds of prey can attack them. The key dangers are eagles and golden eagles. To avoid threats from predatory animals, rams are forced to move in herds and stay in groups.
Breeding
They tried to breed these animals in zoos in America and Germany. However, these attempts were unsuccessful. Usually the lambs died after a few months or even days.These individuals were able to live as long as possible in captivity at the Biological Institute located in Siberia. Their lifespan was 6 years. It is recommended to keep Altai sheep close to their natural habitat. At the same time, it is important to create suitable conditions for them and provide quality care.
Rocks must stick together to form large herds. At the same time, females always go separately, and males must do this in such a way as to protect the cubs.
What is WWF doing to conserve the argali?
This organization has been taking measures for many years to preserve the population of Altai sheep in Russia. The Foundation carries out anti-poaching activities, carries out relevant research and keeps records of animals. WWF specialists take part in the creation of materials and programs aimed at protecting the species in Russia. They help create protected areas in animal habitats.
According to WWF, since 2003, the number of animals in the transboundary zone between Mongolia and Russia has been stable. Altai mountain sheep are a breed that is on the verge of extinction. The main feature of animals is their unique size. Representatives of this species are distinguished by their impressive weight and voluminous horns. They live on high cliffs and need protection from environmental organizations.
