See head-butting rams at Utah's Bighorn Sheep viewing day

Few moments in the wildlife world are more violent than the annual mating season of bighorn sheep; at least the events that don't end in a death.

It isn't the mating that causes people to cringe, but dominance determination by the rams.

Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) officials can't guarantee that participants will see bighorn sheep ramming heads, but it is possible during the annual free Bighorn Sheep Watch on Saturday along the Green River, north of the town of Green River.

"Bighorn are in the rut this time of year, so they are less wary of people," DWR outreach manager Brent Stettler said in a statement. "The opportunity to see the courtship behavior of these animals is worth the trip."

Because the animals are so focused on deciding dominance and courtship, Stettler says, they are less leery of vehicles and allow for observations as close as 50 yards. People stepping out of vehicles will likely cause the wild sheep to move farther away.

Participants will meet at 8 a.m. at the John Wesley Powell Museum parking lot, 1765 E. Main St., in Green River. The group will then travel by caravan along the river road looking for sheep.

DWR officials suggest bringing spotting scopes, binoculars and cameras. Stettler will have some spotting scopes and binoculars for use as well.

No registration is necessary to attend, but people with questions can call 435-613-3707 or email brentstettler@utah.gov.

BrettP@sltrib.com

Twitter: @BrettPrettyman