Bighorn Sheep Behavior and Competition

In the Canadian Rockies, bighorn sheep engage in fierce battles for mating rights. Rams use headbutting with their strong horns to compete, employing various tactics to outsmart rivals. The winner must then prove his worth to the females by demonstrating strength and endurance. The cycle repeats each season as new challengers emerge.

What is the main prize for the bighorn sheep in their battle?

• Mating rights

• Food

• Territory

• Shelter

What physical feature helps the rams absorb the shock during head-butting?

• Thick fur

• Sharp hooves

• Double layered skulls

• Strong legs

Which tactic is used by a ram to catch its opponent off guard?

• Running in circles

• Jumping high

• Pretending to graze

• Pretending to sleep

What is a common strategy used by rams to weaken their opponent?

• Two-on-one attacks

• Head-butting from the side

• Biting

• Kicking

What challenge does the lead ram face after winning the battle?

• Finding food

• Building a shelter

• Avoiding predators

• Pursuing females up the mountain

How do the other males react after the lead ram wins the battle?

• They form alliances

• They continue to challenge him

• They ignore him

• They leave the area

What do the females consider before accepting a ram?

• His appearance

• His strength and endurance

• His age

• His territory

What signifies the end of the competition season for the rams?

• The birth of new lambs

• The arrival of winter

• The migration to a new area

• The acceptance by females

What ensures the continuation of the cycle for the bighorn sheep?

• The competition for mating rights

• The change of seasons

• The birth of new lambs

• The migration patterns