IBEX
Capra ibex
DESCRIPTION
The ibex (Capra ibex) is a species of wild goat known for its impressive curved horns and agile climbing abilities. They are well adapted to mountainous terrains and are often found in steep, rocky areas.
FUN FACTS
- Ibex can jump up to 6 feet high | They have excellent eyesight, allowing them to spot predators from a distance | Males can weigh up to 100 kg
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
Average Weight50-100 kg
Average Length1.2-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — typically found in herds, especially females and young.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonAutumn (October-November)
- Habitat
- Ibex inhabit rocky, mountainous regions where they can find ample vegetation. They prefer steep slopes and cliffs that provide safety from predators.
- Biomes
- Mountain, Alpine
- Native Range
- The native range of the ibex includes the European Alps, the Caucasus Mountains, and parts of North Africa.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia, Africa
- Countries
- Italy, Switzerland, France, Austria, Georgia, Algeria
- Diet
- Ibex are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, shrubs, and other vegetation. They are known to be selective feeders, often choosing the most nutritious plants available.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, shrubs
- Social Structure
- group — typically found in herds, especially females and young.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
LC
LC
50-100 kg
Weight
1.2-1.5 m
Length
0.8-1.0 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- light brown to gray with a lighter underbelly
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are larger with longer horns than females.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 150 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Autumn (October-November)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of ibex is currently stable in many areas, though some local populations may be threatened.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 50,000-100,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss and hunting. In some regions, they are also affected by competition with livestock.
- Predators
- Wolves, lynxes, and golden eagles
- Defense Mechanisms
- Ibex use their agility and climbing skills to escape predators, often retreating to steep cliffs.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon