Mouflon
Ovis aries musimon
The Mammalia Ovis aries musimon, commonly known as the European mouflon, is a wild sheep species often regarded as the ancestor of many domestic sheep breeds. This species is native to Europe, including areas such as the Comunidad Valenciana, where it is locally referred to as "muflón europeo."
Characteristics:
- Appearance: The European mouflon is characterized by its reddish-brown coat, which darkens during the winter months. Males typically display prominent, curved horns, while females may have smaller, less pronounced ones.
- Size: They are medium-sized sheep, with males generally larger than females. Males can weigh between 35 to 55 kilograms, while females usually weigh between 25 to 35 kilograms.
- Habitat: They thrive in the mountainous and rocky areas of the Comunidad Valenciana, where they can find grasses, herbs, and shoots for grazing.
- Behavior: The European mouflon is known for being highly social, often seen in groups. Males and females usually form separate groups, coming together during the mating season in autumn.
Conservation Status: While the European mouflon is not currently considered endangered, habitat loss and hunting pose ongoing threats to their populations. In the Comunidad Valenciana, efforts are made to preserve their habitats and ensure sustainable population levels.