Sair Argali | Online Record Book Preview

Ovis ammon sairensis

Most Western scientists do not consider the Sair form a valid subspecies, but include it as a race of Tian Shan argali (O. a. karelini). We list it because it is recognized by Chinese and some Russian scientists, and because it is a historical hunting category.

DESCRIPTION Considerably smaller than the Tibetan argali, but with heavy horns and a relatively higher "brow," which might indicate a closer relationship to the Altai, Gobi and Tibetan argalis than to those farther west and south. Described as uniformly reddish-fawn in summer, except for the white muzzle, with no rump patch and underparts darker. Females are said to have a dark dorsal streak. The winter coat has a white neck ruff, which may encircle the head, white underparts and rump, and white areas on the face. Horn lengths to 50-1/2 inches (128.3 cm) and bases to 15-1/2 inches (39.4 cm) have been recorded (Rowland Ward, 1909).

DISTRIBUTION Found in the Tarbagatay Mountains of extreme eastern Kazakhstan and northern Xinjiang, ranging eastward through the Sair (or Saiar, or Jair) Mountains and other small ranges as far as the Maili-Barlik group. Separated from the Altai Mountains by the basin of the Kara Irtysh River. Well separated from the Karaganda argali to the west.