Sequence of epiphyseal fusion in the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep

Authors

Danny Walker, University of Wyoming, Laramie

Abstract

Sequence and timing of epiphyseal fusion of the postcranial skeleton of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) was examined. Ages up to four years can be determined. Slight differences were found in the time of fusion between males and females. These do not prevent determining the age of a skeleton within a period of two or three months, an accuracy comparable to existing techniques that involve tooth eruption schedules, horn annulations, or incisor cemental annulations.

Recommended Citation

Walker, Danny (1987) "Sequence of epiphyseal fusion in the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 47: No. 1, Article 2.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol47/iss1/2