Pyrenean Ibex

Capra pyrenaica pyrenaica

The Pyrenean Ibex once ranged from Sierra de los Nieves in the province of Malaga into the French Pyrenees. A few hundred years ago they were numerous, but by 1900 their numbers were reduced to less than one hundred. Moreover, since 1900, their numbers have never risen above 40.

The last Pyrenean Ibex was found dead on January 6, 2000. The reason the Ibex became extinct is a mystery. Some hypotheses include the inability to compete with other species for food, infections and diseases, and poaching.

The Pyrenean Ibex was one of four subspecies of Ibex. This is the best known species with smoother and more spreading horns.

Range and Population

Formerly found in the Spanish Pyrenees. However, more recently the population was restricted to Ordesa National Park in Spain.

Habitat

Capra pyrenaica preferred rocky, mountainous habitat. Its diet consisted of grass, herbs and lichens.

Taxonomy

The Pyrenean Ibex is in the Order Artiodactyla (even-toed ungulates). These animals are paraxonic which means that the plane of symmetry of each foot passes between the third and fourth digits. The third and fourth digits are quite large and bear most of the weight.

The Pyrenean Ibex is of Family Bovidae. All bovids have horns. Their skulls lack sagittal crests. They have hypsodont teeth.

External links

• Recently Extinct Animals: Pyrenean ibex
• List of Threatened Species: Pyrenean ibex
• Origins of Domestic Goats