Standing still is the best defense mechanism of the sheep and it indeed makes it very difficult to spot them with an untrained eye. However, Ladakhi professionals offer a plethora of sightseeing tours assisting you in exploring the wildlife in a true sense. The wonderful world of Ladakhi sheep comes with the elegance of the natural balance however, it is quite alarming that the number of sheep is reducing to a great extent. Although, scarcity of forests and measly availability of greenery, the sheep manage to survive with significant efforts and care. A few animals even suffer from Mountain Sickness, one of the major ailments due to oxygen scarcity. Most popular sheep types spotted in Ladakh are Napo – Blue Sheep or Bharals are spotted in Rumbak and Markha valleys.
However, a current survey reveals their population has reduced to around forty. These sheep prefer to stay at 6000 meters altitude and occasionally descend down in winter in search of grass. However, spotting them in summer is comparatively easy while they graze on alpine meadows grass terrains. However, otherwise they are tough to identify due to the brownish-grey color, a perfect camouflage for surviving in the rugged terrain. One of the peculiarities of Bharals is they stand still making it tough for predators to identify. However, when in danger they spring in lightening speed and flee away within a couple of moments. Shapu – Shapu is a small sheep also known as Urial.
It weighs around 80 kilos and is one of the smallest from the amazing sheep family Ladakh harbors. Spotting these sheep on the grassy mountains is quite easy however; you need assistance of local professionals to reach these mountains. May of every year is the best time if you want to spot their cute young ones. Skin – Capra Ibex or Ibex are one of the attractions in Ladakh wildlife. Their curved spiral horns make them look peculiar. Trekkers often spot them due to the abundance. Capra Ibex move in a herd of 10 to 15 and they are spotted all over in Ladakh.
Amazingly, horns of Ibex measure up to 150cm in length adding a unique appeal to their outlook. Nyan – Nyan or the largest sheep in the entire world is also famous as Great Tibetan Sheep. However, these sheep prefer their habitat above 4500 meters and rarely descend below. Spotting the sheep is easy only if local professionals help you. Attractive spiral horns of up to 150cm length make them a center of the attraction for tourists. Ladakh hosts a wide array of wildlife and especially the sheep with a spiral and carved horns. Visiting Ladakh is exciting yet you need proper protection all the time like winter jackets for women in India offer.
