argali

Argali, or Asiatic wild sheep, is a large wild sheep native to Central Asia. The species Ovis ammon ranges across high mountains from the Caspian region and the Tian Shan to the Pamir, Hindu Kush, Mongolia, and northern China, with populations in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan. They inhabit rugged rocky terrain at elevations commonly from 1,000 to 4,000 meters, and often undertake seasonal migrations to access forage and water.

Argali are among the largest wild sheep. Males (rams) are much larger than females and carry massive horns that curve and spiral. The coats vary by region but are generally gray-brown with pale undersides; rams often have darker facial markings. They are adapted to cold, arid environments, with thick hides and dense winter coats.

Diet consists mainly of grasses, herbs, and sedges, with foraging shifting to shrubs and forbs in harsher winters. They live in social groups, from bachelor bands of males to larger female-led herds; during the autumn rut, horn competition occurs. Breeding occurs in autumn; gestation is about five months, and most births yield a single lamb, though twins can occur.

Conservation concerns include poaching for meat and horns, and habitat loss from human activity. Because many populations lie across international borders, cross-border protected areas and conservation programs are common. The IUCN assesses subspecies differently, but many populations are threatened or of conservation concern.

Etymology: The name argali derives from Central Asian languages, and English usage often adopts it as the common name for this species.