Siberian Ibex

Capra sibirica

Both sexes of the Siberian ibex have horns. The females’ horns are relatively small and bent backwards, while the males’ imposing horns can grow up to one meter long. They continue to grow all throughout their lives and are not shed like antlers.

Gender segregation

Females stay pregnant for five to six months and give birth to one, or more rarely, two babies. The kids have a very thick fur, which provides excellent protection from the cold. The females live with their offspring in herds of up to 20 animals. Male ibexes form bachelor groups or live in solitude.

Characteristics

  • Origin

    Central Asia

  • Habitat

    mountain ranges, up to 5,000 metres above sea level

  • Diet

    Siberian ibex feed on grass, herbaceous plants, mosses, lichens, young shoots, and buds.

  • Status

    least concern

  • Size

    Up to 110 cm (shoulder height)

  • Weight

    The weight ranges from 35 to 130 kg, females are significantly lighter than males.

  • Gestation period

    5 to 6 months

  • Achievable age

    up to 15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in human care

Threat Categories of IUCN

Natural suction cups

These graceful rock climbers have special hooves: the inner “sole” is soft and rubbery while the outer “wall” is hard with sharp edges. This design helps the ibex keep a grip on steep rock faces – even when leaping several metres.

Different styles

The bucks of this species sport a long shaggy goatee, whereas the facial hair of its European relatives is short and “neatly trimmed”.

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