Ibex

by Liam O'Connor
Ibex

The ibex (Capra ibex) is a species of wild goat that inhabits the mountains of Europe and Asia. The male ibex has large, curved horns, while the female has smaller horns. Both sexes have short hair and are reddish-brown in color. Ibex are agile climbers and are often seen on steep rocky slopes.

Ibex are herbivores and their diet consists mostly of grasses, leaves, and twigs. In winter, when food is scarce, they will eat bark and lichens. Ibex live in small herds consisting of 10-20 individuals. These herds typically contain one adult male, several adult females, and their young offspring.

Ibex mate during the autumn months and give birth to one or two kids in the springtime. After about six weeks, the kids are able to fend for themselves and join a juvenile herd. Females reach sexual maturity at 2-3 years old, while males do not reach maturity until 4-5 years old. The lifespan of an ibex is 12-15 years in the wild and up to 20 years in captivity.

The main predators of ibex are wolves and golden eagles. However, humans have also been known to hunt them for their meat and horns which are used for making ornamental objects such as cups and dagger handles

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