20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Gloves Off

Big Horned Rams fight for dominance by clashing heads in very physical battles. In this display called "rut," rams face each other, rear up on hind legs and pitch forward at speeds up to 40 mph. The loud crash of horns signals contact and can be heard up to one mile away. This ritual is repeated until one animal concedes and walks away.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2022
Photo Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States of America
Copyright: © Jamie Johnston