Big Horn Sheep prefer rocky, hard-to-reach slopes of mountains alternating with flat areas. They are usually found in small groups. These most beautiful cloven-hoofed individuals, whose heads are adorned with amazing horns are a true masterpiece of nature. From the cold and winds, they are kept warm by thick, long, dense wool.
In winter, when it is snowy and cold in the mountains, Big Horn Sheep descend to the lower levels. It is in this season that you can meet them if you go hiking to Waterman, Pleasant View Ridge, and possibly Bridge to Nowhere. They are very shy, so it is hard to take a good photo with them. Still, you should try.
Practical info
When is the best time to spot Big Horn Sheep in Los Angeles?
Big Horn Sheep in Los Angeles can be spotted between December and February, as they tend to move towards lower elevations during winter where they are more likely to be seen. These animals are known for inhabiting rugged, hard-to-reach terrain around the Los Angeles mountains and are challenging to sight. Despite the difficulty, seeing these majestic sheep up close is worth the effort and planning, and hiring a guide or joining organized hiking tours that specialize in wildlife spotting can increase your chances of sightings. Show more
Where can I find Big Horn Sheep in Los Angeles?
If you are lucky, you may spot Big Horn Sheep in places like the San Gabriel Mountains, Waterman, and Mount Baldy around Los Angeles. These creatures prefer staying in rocky terrain with flat areas that offer challenges for humans, but they still inhabit locations around the Angeles National Forest during winter. They tend to shy away from areas with a lot of crowds, so one of the best ways to spot them involves hiring a guide or joining organized hiking tours that specialize in wildlife spotting. Show more
What kind of environment do Big Horn Sheep prefer in Los Angeles?
Big Horn Sheep thrive in rocky, challenging-to-reach environments that consist of flat and uneven areas. The mountains around Los Angeles, such as San Gabriel Mountains, Waterman, and Mount Baldy, offer such terrain that is perfect for these animals. If you are hiking around these locations, you may get a chance to sight them. You won't find them near civilized places, as they prefer peaceful and secluded spaces. Show more
How do Big Horn Sheep adapt to the cold weather in Los Angeles?
Big Horn Sheep adapt to the cold weather in Los Angeles by growing thick wool during winter that protects them from the harsh weather conditions. The wool also insulates them against the freezing winds that sweep through mountainous areas. They descend to lower elevations during winter in search of food and water. Their wool enables them to survive in cold weather with temperatures that go below freezing point. Show more
Is it possible to take a good photo with Big Horn Sheep despite their shyness?
Big Horn Sheep in Los Angeles are shy creatures, making photographing them a challenge. They inhabit remote and steep mountainous terrain and hide behind bushes or rocks when they feel threatened. However, hiring a guide or joining organized hiking tours that specialize in wildlife spotting increases your chances of sighting and taking beautiful photos of these creatures. Using professional equipment, such as zoom lenses or binoculars, is an additional advantage to capture these memorable moments. Show more
