Rams, male members of the sheep family, can pose a fatal risk to humans. While not an everyday occurrence, their physical power and strong natural instincts mean encounters can escalate quickly, resulting in severe, even deadly, injuries. Understanding ram behavior and this potential danger is important for anyone who might come into contact with these animals.
The Physical Threat
A ram’s primary attack is headbutting, leveraging its body weight and powerful neck muscles for forceful impact. Rams can weigh up to 350 pounds (160 kg) and charge at speeds up to 20 mph (32 kph). The force of a ram’s headbutt can reach an estimated 3,400 Newtons (764 pounds of force), significantly more than the 1,100 Newtons required to break a white pine plank.
These impacts can lead to severe injuries, including blunt force trauma, concussions, and broken bones. Internal organ damage is also a risk, particularly to the chest and head, which can result in fatalities, as seen in cases where fractured ribs have punctured lungs. The force can also knock a person to the ground, leading to further injuries or subsequent attacks. Injuries from a ram attack have been likened to those sustained from being hit by a car.
Understanding Aggressive Behavior
Rams exhibit aggressive behavior primarily due to natural instincts, including territoriality and flock protection. They may perceive humans as rivals or threats, especially if accustomed to human presence and lacking natural fear. This can lead rams to challenge people as they would another ram, vying for dominance within their perceived social hierarchy.
The rutting (breeding) season, typically October to January for bighorn sheep, significantly heightens aggression due to hormonal changes. During this period, rams are particularly combative as they compete for mating rights, often engaging in fierce headbutting battles. Hand-reared rams can sometimes be more dangerous as adults because their early familiarity with humans can lead to them viewing people as peers to challenge, rather than something to avoid.
Prioritizing Safety Around Rams
Preventing aggressive encounters with rams is the most effective safety measure. Always maintain awareness of a ram’s location and behavior, avoiding turning your back on them. Never corner a ram or place yourself between a ram and its flock, especially during breeding season, as this can trigger a defensive attack. Identifying warning signs of aggression, such as pawing the ground, snorting, or lowering their head, allows for proactive measures.
If confronted by a ram, do not run; rams can reach speeds of up to 40 mph, making escape difficult. Instead, standing your ground and being prepared to dodge at the last moment can be effective. Seeking higher ground or using a physical barrier, like a fence or a sturdy object, can provide protection. Carrying a long stick can also serve as a deterrent or create distance. Never pet a ram on the head or engage in playful pushing, as these actions can be interpreted as challenges and escalate aggression.