Species / Bighorn Sheep / Desert Bighorn
Desert Bighorn
Subspecies of Bighorn Sheep · Ovis canadensis
Mojave, Sonoran, Chihuahuan, and Great Basin deserts of California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico
Male weight
150–220 lbs
Female weight
75–130 lbs
Record
205 3/8 Boone & Crockett
Overview
Desert bighorn (Ovis canadensis nelsoni and related subspecies) are compact, pale-colored sheep adapted to extreme desert conditions.
Identifying Features
Pale tan to gray-brown body color; smaller body than Rocky Mountain bighorn; horns lighter in mass but can achieve dramatic flare and length
Hunting This Subspecies
Desert bighorn seasons typically run October through December, timed to cool-weather periods.