Also known as: Nelson bighorn sheep, Desert sheep
Desert Bighorn SheepDesert Bighorn Sheep are smaller and lighter in color than the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep. These majestic mammals were chosen as the state mammal of Nevada and are an exciting sight to see across the Nevada landscape. They are easily recognized by their horns that both rams and ewes have. These mammals are highly adapted to the mountainous desert habitat. They can go for extended periods without water, and have highly specialized hooves that help them grip the rocky terrain.
Habitat & Range
This species of Bighorn Sheep prefers the rough and rocky habitat of mountains in Southern Nevada. Steep rocks offer protection against predators, who are unable to navigate and climb up after the bighorn sheep. Although residents of deserts, they do require freestanding water to help them get through the hot summers.
Life History
Desert Bighorn Sheep are herbivores whose diet consists of mostly grasses but also includes shrubs, cacti, acacia, and forbs. Their diet depends on their geographic location and availability of vegetation. In the warmer months, they graze on mountain slopes. During the colder months, they move down to the valleys. Mating season, called the βrut,β occurs in the fall when rams (male sheep) will compete to mate with females. Later in the season, rams will join females and female groups. In the winter, bands of ewes (female bighorn sheep) may join together and form large groups of up to 100 sheep.
Status, Trends & Threats
Disease; Habitat Fragmentation
Hunting Season
Any Ram: Sep 15-Jan 1 (most units). Management Ram: Jan 5-Feb 20 (select units). Archery Ram: various dates Aug-Feb. California Bighorn: Sep 1-Nov 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Desert Bighorn Sheep in Nevada
Desert bighorn sheep hunting in Nevada is a premier limited-draw opportunity with very few tags. Seasons typically run Sep-Jan for any-ram hunts. Hunters must call the Harvest Information Hotline (1-833-923-0754) daily before hunting to check for unit closures. Harvest must be reported by calling 775-688-2327 by 9 PM PT the day of harvest. Nevada is home to desert (Nelson), California, and Rocky Mountain bighorn subspecies.
How do I apply for a desert bighorn sheep tag in Nevada?
Desert bighorn sheep tags are awarded through Nevada's big game draw system. Applications typically open mid-March to mid-May. Tag quotas are very limited, making this one of the most sought-after big game tags in the country.
When is Desert Bighorn Sheep hunting season in Nevada?
Any Ram: Sep 15-Jan 1 (most units). Management Ram: Jan 5-Feb 20 (select units). Archery Ram: various dates Aug-Feb. California Bighorn: Sep 1-Nov 10.
What is the bag limit for Desert Bighorn Sheep in Nevada?
1 ram per tag (limited draw).
What's another name for Desert Bighorn Sheep?
Desert Bighorn Sheep is also known as Nelson bighorn sheep, Desert sheep in Nevada.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Any Ram: Sep 15-Jan 1 (most units). Management Ram: Jan 5-Feb 20 (select units). Archery Ram: various dates Aug-Feb. Cal | Link |
| Nevada | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Desert bighorn sheep hunting in Nevada is a premier limited-draw opportunity with very few tags. Seasons typically run S | Link |
