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Cost of an Urial Hunt
Outside of Texas, prices for a Transcaspian Urial hunt, at the higher range for an exotic big game hunt, average between $15,000 and $20,000 and is not affordable for most hunters. The price for hunting an Afghan Urial in Texas is between $4,500 and $7,000 or more. The final total depends on the size of the rack, trophy fee, rifle or bow hunt, number of days, taxidermy fees, guide fees, quality of accommodations, amenities and services available.
Urial Hunting Season
All Year
Hunting Trophy Afghan Urial Ram
These are very rare animals, and very highly sought after with horns usually over 30 inches. The Transcaspian Urials have very heavy, thick horns that are tapered back to sharp points as they curve around into a half-circle, pointing back toward the animals neck. These horns make for an incredible trophy, and male horns can run between 26 and 40 inches. The typical male stands about three feet tall at the shoulder. The females also have prominent and distinctive horns, though they never reach the full size of the males.
Physical Characteristics
A standard Transcaspian Urial shep will carry a light brown coat, useful for blending into the natural habitat. This sandy-brown color will also have reddish tints, making these a favorite for full mounts. The legs, chest and muzzle will often be white, and fur on the chest is notably thicker than the rest of the body, making this splash of color really stand out.
Behavior/Social Characteristics
The Transcaspian Urial is a flocking sheep, and these flocks are used both as protection against predators and as protection against the cold nights in higher altitudes. Male rams can be aggressive, and the oldest and most dominant is in charge of the herd.
Many autumn fights revolve around mating, and a successful male will take a group of females;anywhere from three to six;to mate with exclusively. Due to their desire to stay in flocks, though, the other males usually still have enough mating partners. The females either have single lambs or twins, with a 50/50 split between the two.
Native Habitat and Countries
The Transcaspian Urial originates in the mountains in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and northern Iran. Recently, you can find them in the rolling Texas hill country. Typically, the Transcaspian Urial stays below tree-line, preferring the grassy foothills and lower slopes. In these areas, there is plenty of lichen and grass and freedom of movement; this is why they thrive in the Texas Hill Country. The animals tend to avoid rocky areas and higher altitudes when possible, despite being known as a mountain-dwelling sheep.