SPANISH IBEX

GREDOS IBEX

The Gredos ibex, scientifically known as Capra pyrenaica victoriae, is a subspecies of the Iberian ibex native to Spain. It is renowned for its impressive horns and its ability to thrive in rugged mountainous terrains, making it a prized species for hunters and conservationists alike. The Gredos ibex is medium-sized, with males weighing up to 100 kg and females significantly lighter. Males are distinguished by their large, curved horns, which can reach remarkable lengths and are shaped in a lyre-like configuration. Their coat varies seasonally, with darker tones in winter and lighter shades in summer, providing excellent camouflage in their natural habitat.

  • This subspecies is primarily found in the Sierra de Gredos, a mountain range in western Spain. The region's rocky slopes, dense forests, and open grasslands provide the perfect environment for the Gredos ibex to thrive. They are also found in other areas of Spain, such as Las Batuecas and La Pedriza, where they have been introduced.

  • The Gredos ibex is diurnal, being most active during the day. It is a mixed feeder, consuming grasses, shrubs, and leaves depending on the availability of vegetation. During the rutting season in autumn, males engage in dramatic battles using their horns to establish dominance and attract mates.

  • The Gredos ibex is a highly sought-after game species, with hunting primarily concentrated in:

    • Sierra de Gredos (Castilla y León): The native habitat of this subspecies and the most iconic hunting location.

    • Las Batuecas (Salamanca): Known for its rugged landscapes and ibex populations.

    • La Pedriza (Madrid): A popular area for hunting and observing ibex in their natural environment.

  • September – March and May – June

  • 270 Win

  • SCI: Bronze: 70 points; 75 7/8 points; 81 1/8 points

    CIC: Bronze: 205 points; Silver: 220 points; Gold: 230 points

RONDA IBEX

The Ronda ibex, scientifically known as Capra pyrenaica hispanica, is a subspecies of the Spanish ibex native to the rugged landscapes of southern Spain. Known for its agility and adaptability, this species is particularly admired for its graceful movements and striking appearance. The Ronda ibex is a medium-sized mountain goat, with males weighing up to 80 kg. Males are distinguished by their uniquely shaped horns, which curve outward and backward in a semi-circular arc. Females have smaller, more slender horns. Their coat is a mix of brown, gray, and black, with a darker shade during winter, helping them blend into rocky terrains.

  • This subspecies is primarily found in the mountain ranges of southern Spain, particularly in the Sierra de Ronda and Serranía de Ronda in Andalusia. It thrives in rocky slopes, cliffs, and open woodlands, where it has access to both shelter and a variety of vegetation. The rugged terrain also provides protection from predators.

  • The Ronda ibex is diurnal, with peak activity in the early morning and late afternoon. It feeds on grasses, shrubs, and tree bark, adapting its diet to the seasonal availability of food. During the mating season, males compete for dominance through displays of strength, often engaging in head-butting contests using their horns.

  • The Ronda ibex is a prized game species, with hunting typically focused in:

    • Serranía de Ronda (Andalusia): The native habitat of this subspecies and an iconic location for hunting.

    • Sierra de Grazalema (Andalusia): Known for its biodiversity and ibex populations.

    • Sierra de las Nieves (Andalusia): A protected area offering controlled hunting opportunities.

  • October – March

  • 270 Win

  • SCI: Bronze: 63 points; 69 points; 74 4/8 points

    CIC: Bronze: 195 points; Silver: 210 points; Gold: 220 points

SIERRA NEVADA IBEX

The Southeastern Spanish ibex, scientifically known as Capra pyrenaica hispanica, is a subspecies of the Iberian ibex native to Spain. It is admired for its adaptability to mountainous terrains and its striking physical features. The Southeastern Spanish ibex is medium-sized, with males weighing up to 90 kg. Males are distinguished by their long, thick horns that curve backward impressively. Females have smaller, more slender horns. Their coat is light in color, ranging from grayish-brown to sandy tones, which helps them blend into their rocky surroundings.

  • This subspecies is primarily found in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Andalusia, as well as other areas such as Sierra de Cazorla, Sierra de Grazalema, and Montes de Málaga. It thrives in rugged terrains, cliffs, and open woodlands, where it has access to shelter and diverse vegetation.

  • The Southeastern Spanish ibex is diurnal, being most active during the day. It feeds on grasses, shrubs, and leaves, adapting its diet to the seasonal availability of food. During the mating season, males engage in dramatic battles using their horns to establish dominance and attract mates.

  • The Southeastern Spanish ibex is a prized game species, with hunting primarily concentrated in:

    • Sierra Nevada (Andalusia): The native habitat of this subspecies and a key hunting location.

    • Sierra de Cazorla (Andalusia): Known for its biodiversity and ibex populations.

    • Sierra de Grazalema (Andalusia): A protected area offering controlled hunting opportunities.

    • Montes de Málaga (Andalusia): A popular area for hunting and observing ibex in their natural environment.

  • October – March

  • 270 win or more

  • SCI: Bronze: 63 points; 69 points; 74 4/8 points

    CIC: Bronze: 195 points; Silver: 210 points; Gold: 220 points

BECEITE IBEX

The Beceite ibex, scientifically known as Capra pyrenaica hispanica, is a subspecies of the Iberian ibex native to northeastern Spain. This magnificent mountain goat is admired for its adaptability to steep terrain and its unique physical characteristics, making it a favorite among hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. The Beceite ibex is medium-sized, with males reaching weights of up to 90 kg. Males are distinguished by their impressive horns, which curve outward and backward in a semi-spiral shape, often broader and thicker compared to other ibex subspecies. Females have smaller and more slender horns. Their coat varies seasonally, with darker shades in winter and lighter tones in summer, providing effective camouflage against rocky cliffs.

  • This subspecies thrives in mountainous areas, particularly in the Beceite mountain range, located between Aragón, Catalonia, and the Valencian Community. It is adapted to rugged terrains, rocky slopes, and areas with sparse vegetation, where it can find shelter and food.

  • The Beceite ibex is diurnal, being most active during the day. It feeds on grasses, shrubs, and tree leaves, adapting its diet to the seasonal availability of vegetation. During the mating season in autumn, males engage in head-to-head contests using their horns to establish dominance and win over females.

  • The Beceite ibex is a highly prized game species, with hunting concentrated in:

    • Beceite Mountains (Aragón, Catalonia, Valencian Community): The native habitat and most iconic area for this subspecies.

    • Els Ports Natural Park (Catalonia): Renowned for its diverse wildlife and ibex populations.

  • October – May

  • 270 or more

  • SCI: Bronze: 69 points; 75 5/8 points; 80 1/8 points

    CIC: Bronze: 205 points; Silver: 220 points; Gold: 230 points

EXPERIENCE THE WILD, HONOR THE HUNT

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Red Deer