🐏 Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep – Colorado’s Official State Animal

Introduction – About the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep

The Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep has been Colorado’s official state animal since 1961, selected for its strong presence in high-altitude environments and its visibility in mountain regions. You’ll often see these animals along highways such as I-70 near the Eisenhower Tunnel, which sits at 11,158 feet and is one of the world’s highest vehicular tunnels.

To learn more about Colorado’s official symbols, visit the Colorado State Archives – State Symbols.

Quick Facts About the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep

Feature	Detail
Scientific Name	Ovis canadensis canadensis
Habitat	Elevations of 10,000–13,000+ feet
Ram Weight	Up to 300 pounds
Horn Weight	Up to 30+ pounds
Common Locations	Eisenhower Tunnel, Glenwood Canyon, Mount Evans
State Symbol Since	1961
Protection Status	Not endangered or federally protected

Where to See Bighorn Sheep in Colorado

Bighorn sheep are often spotted near major mountain highways and canyons. These areas provide natural habitat, and the steep cliffs offer protection from predators:

• Eisenhower Tunnel (I-70) – Frequently seen around the east and west entrances.
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway – High-altitude terrain makes this a prime viewing spot.
• Glenwood Canyon – Rocky walls along I-70 provide ideal habitat.
• Georgetown / Silver Plume Area – Known as the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Scenic Area.

For wildlife viewing tips, visit Colorado Parks and Wildlife – Watchable Wildlife.

Behavior and Physical Characteristics

Bighorn sheep are built for life in steep, rugged terrain. Their split hooves and rough footpads allow them to grip narrow ledges and rocky slopes with precision.

• Rams are males, recognized by large curled horns.
• Ewes are females with shorter, slightly curved horns.
• During fall mating season, rams engage in head-to-head clashes to establish dominance.
• They graze on grasses, shrubs, and alpine vegetation year-round.

They live in herds and tend to stay within familiar high-altitude ranges.

Legal Status and Wildlife Management

The Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep was declared the official state animal by Senate Bill 294 in 1961. Although not endangered, they are closely monitored by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to protect against disease and habitat loss.

CPW issues limited hunting tags through a lottery system. Details can be found at the CPW Bighorn Sheep page.

FAQ – Bighorn Sheep in Colorado

Q: Are bighorn sheep aggressive?
A: No. They typically avoid people. Rams may act defensively during the rut but rarely pose a threat.

Q: Can you legally hunt bighorn sheep in Colorado?
A: Yes, but only through a strict lottery permit system run by CPW.

Q: Are they native to Colorado?
A: Yes, they are native to the Rocky Mountains and thrive in high-elevation terrain.

Q: What’s the difference between a ram and a ewe?
A: Rams are males with large, curled horns. Ewes are females with smaller, gently curved horns.

📸 Share Your Bighorn Sheep Photos

Seen bighorn sheep on your adventures? We’d love to see your photos and may feature them on our social channels!

• Instagram: @OpenRoadColorado
• Facebook: Open Road Colorado
• X (Twitter): @OpenRoadCO

Use the hashtag #OpenRoadColorado and include the date and location of your sighting!

🔗 Official Resources and Government Links

• Colorado State Archives – State Animal
• Colorado Parks and Wildlife – Bighorn Sheep
• CPW – Watchable Wildlife Guidelines
• Colorado General Assembly – Senate Bill 294 (1961)