Bighorn Sheep

To capture bighorn sheep on a trail camera, you must focus on 'escape terrain'—the steep, rocky areas where they retreat for safety. Look for well-worn game trails that transition between grassy feeding plateaus and these vertical cliffs. Position your camera at about chest height (3-4 feet) to account for their stocky build. Because they move in herds, use a wide-angle lens setting if available, and set a shorter trigger interval to capture the entire group as they pass by.

In arid environments like the Southwest, water is the ultimate draw. Placing a camera near a known spring or 'guzzler' (man-made water source) is highly effective, especially during the heat of the day. Avoid pointing the camera directly East or West to prevent sun flare from ruining your shots during their peak morning and evening movement times. Ensure the camera is securely strapped to a solid rock or post, as these curious animals may occasionally nudge or investigate foreign objects in their environment.

Seasonal timing is crucial for the most dramatic footage. Aim for the late autumn rut (typically November and December), when rams are most active and prone to displays of dominance. During this time, look for 'ram pastures'—open meadows adjacent to steep slopes. For settings, use a high shutter speed to freeze the action of a head-butt, and ensure your PIR (motion sensor) sensitivity is set to high, as sheep can move surprisingly fast when startled or during a chase.

Lastly, never use food bait or salt licks to attract bighorn sheep, as this can facilitate the spread of respiratory diseases, which are a major threat to their populations. Instead, rely on natural funnels like narrow ridgelines or saddles in the terrain. If you are in a backyard setting bordering a canyon, a birdbath or a simple water feature might attract them, but the best shots always come from observing their natural movement between bedding and grazing areas.