State symbols are adopted to express a jurisdiction’s unique geography, history, and natural heritage. These emblems provide a focal point for regional identity, often highlighting species deeply connected to the local environment. The selection of a state mammal reflects the animal that best embodies the spirit and landscape of the region. The mammal chosen for Colorado exemplifies the state’s rugged, high-altitude terrain and its commitment to wildlife conservation.
The Official State Mammal
The official state mammal of Colorado is the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, scientifically known as Ovis canadensis. The Colorado General Assembly designated this animal as the state’s official symbol in 1961, recognizing its deep roots within the region. This species is considered the quintessential representation of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem. Its presence is tied to the state’s most formidable peaks and challenging mountain ranges.
Defining Traits and Environment
The physical characteristics of the bighorn sheep are perfectly suited to its difficult mountainous habitat. Adult males, called rams, are particularly notable for their massive, spiraling horns, which can weigh up to 30 pounds and measure over 50 inches along the outer curve. These horns are composed of a bony core covered in keratin and grow continuously throughout the animal’s life. Rams can weigh over 300 pounds and stand approximately three feet tall at the shoulder, while females, or ewes, are roughly half that size.
Their coat is generally a gray-brown to dark brown, complemented by a distinctive white patch on their rump. A specialized adaptation is found in their hooves, which feature a hard outer rim and a soft, pliable inner sole that provides exceptional grip on steep, rocky surfaces. This feature allows them to navigate the precarious cliffs and talus slopes that make up their preferred environment. Bighorn sheep are herbivores, grazing on grasses, forbs, and shrubs, and they often migrate seasonally to find the best forage.
They rely on open, steep terrain for security, rarely venturing more than a quarter mile from rocky escape cover. This habitat preference is necessary for avoiding predators like mountain lions and bears, as their agility on cliffs gives them an advantage. The animals are found in alpine and subalpine zones, where the elevation and ruggedness provide both food and a natural defense system.
Historical Significance of the Selection
The choice of the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep was based on its historical and ecological journey in the state. The species is native to Colorado, with a history that predates European settlement. However, by the turn of the 20th century, the population had been decimated due to unregulated hunting and diseases transmitted from domestic livestock.
By the 1950s, the population reached its lowest point, with only an estimated 2,200 animals remaining. The animal’s subsequent recovery through early conservation efforts, including trapping and relocation programs started in the 1940s, made it a symbol of resilience and successful wildlife management. The designation reinforced the state’s commitment to conservation and the preservation of its native wildlife.