The Pyrenean ibex Capra pyrenaica
The Pyrenean ibex (also called the Iberian wild goat or Spanish ibex) has ridged lyre-shaped horns which curve out and up, and can grow up to 75 cm long. The Pyrenean ibex has morphological and genetic characteristics of the ibex and some zoologists relate it to the same species. The Pyrenean ibex measure about 65-75cm tall at the shoulder, are 100-140 cm long, and weigh 35-80 kg. Tail length ranges from 10 to 15 cm. The Pyrenean ibex’s summer coat varies from a light brown to chestnut brown. This species is found in Spain and Portugal at elevations of up to 3,400 meters above sea level. The Pyrenean ibex historically occurred throughout the Iberian Peninsula, including southwest France, Spain, Andorra, and Portugal. It formerly was common throughout its range but high hunting pressure over the last centuries resulted in the significant reduction of the species populations. The Pyrenean ibex typically lives in mountainous landscapes with scattered scrubs or pine trees but may occur in small rocky areas in arable farmland and by the coastline, close to areas populated by humans. These goats are able to disperse easily, readily colonising new areas. It is an important game species.
Pyrenean ibex feed primarily on grasses and lichens. Social structure of these animals varies depending on the season. During the mating season which lasts from November through January, most Pyrenean ibex are found in mixed herds of around 10 individuals. In February, adult males separate and establish the male-only groups. Further separation occurs in April when subadult animals of both sexes leave the herd and form their own groups, while adult females seclude themselves in the remote location to give birth to young. In autumn, animals join in herds again.
