Coyote vs. Bighorn Sheep
Welcome to the another major showdown in the animal kingdom: Coyote vs. Bighorn Sheep! Imagine a gladiatorial arena where these two formidable creatures face off in a hypothetical battle of brawn and brains. The agile, cunning coyote and the robust, headstrong bighorn sheep – who will emerge victorious? Let’s dive into this fun, fictional face-off to see how these competitors stack up!
While this proposed battle is hypothetical, the coyote is actually a predator of the bighorn sheep, so this is actually a battles that plays out
Key Differences between Coyote and Bighorn Sheep
| Characteristic | Coyote | Bighorn Sheep |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 20-50 lbs (9-23 kg) | 119-315 lbs (54-143 kg) |
| Genus | Canis | Ovis |
| Habitat | Deserts, prairies, forests | Mountains, rocky terrain |
| Diet | Omnivorous | Herbivorous |
| Defensive Capabilities | Agility, speed | Thick skull, horns |
| Offensive Capabilities | Bite, pack hunting | Powerful headbutts |
| Speed | Up to 43 mph (69 km/h) | Up to 30 mph (48 km/h) |
| Temperament | Opportunistic, adaptable | Skittish, defensive |
Which Is Faster?
In the speed department, the coyote takes the lead with a top speed of up to 43 mph, outpacing the bighorn sheep’s respectable 30 mph. This quick-footed canid could definitely use its speed to its advantage in a tussle.
The caveat here is that the bighorn is much faster when traveling on rocky terrain and mountainsides. In this habitat very few animals can match the incredible speed, dexterity, and climbing abilities of the sheep. Here the coyote’s speed fails and the sheep can outmaneuver almost any predator.
Which Is Bigger?
When it comes to size, the bighorn sheep clearly outweighs its opponent. With its hefty build, it could potentially use its size to overpower the more svelte coyote.
Which Is Tougher?
The bighorn sheep’s thick skull and robust horns make it a tough competitor. In the toughness arena, the bighorn sheep likely has the upper hand, especially when it comes to taking and delivering powerful blows.
Which Is Meaner?
While “meanness” might be a bit anthropomorphic, the coyote is known for its cunning and opportunistic nature. This could translate into a more aggressive approach in a hypothetical battle.
Who Would Win This Fight
In our imaginary gladiatorial contest, it’s a tough call! The coyote’s speed and cunning could give it an early advantage, but the sheer size and toughness of the bighorn sheep might eventually prevail. In a head-to-head match, the bighorn sheep’s physicality could overpower the coyote’s agility. Our bets? On a good day, the bighorn sheep takes the crown, but never underestimate a coyote’s resourcefulness!
Of course, coyotes are known to sometimes form packs, which would make them formidable hunters. A group of coyotes might not be comfortable attacking a full-grown, male bighorn, but they are more than willing to isolate aging, young, or injured bighorns when the opportunity presents itself.
Video Evidence
A few videos have been shot of coyotes attacking bighorn sheep. These attempts are largely unsuccessful due to the sheep’s incredible climbing abilities, but some have been known to succeed, even if they are not regularly caught on video.