Big Horn Sheep Spotted Near Rio Grande Gorge Bridge - 9:33 am
Big horn sheep spotted Sunday near the edge of the Rio Grande Gorge at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge in Taos. Bighorn sheep typically weigh 160-250 pounds, but males may weigh more than 350 pounds. Their wide-set eyes are situated well to provide a wide arc of exceptional vision. The bighorn sheep’s keen eyesight, hearing and sense of smell help detect and avoid predators. Source: National Wildlife Federation. Photo by Dave Lannen
A camera shy big horn sheep stays behind a bush Sunday near Rio Grande Gorge. Although not as agile as mountain goats, bighorn sheep are well-equipped for climbing the steep terrain that keeps their predators at bay. The outer hooves are modified toenails shaped to snag any slight protrusion, while a soft inner pad provides a grip that conforms to each variable surface. Source: National Wildlife Federation. Photo by Dave Lannen