High Altai Argali

The North Altai Agali is deemed a unique species of Mongolian Argali, separated by terrain and discreet biologically from its regional relative, the High Altai Argali.

North Altai Argali inhabit the north-facing slopes, upland steppes, and alpine ridges east of the Tsengel Khairkhan–Khoton/Khurgan watershed divide, while still confined entirely within northern Bayan-Ölgii and northwestern Uvs Provinces and extending northward into Russia.

Specie / Hunt Description

In regard to East-West boundaries, High Altai Argali are found west and southwest of the Tsengel Khairkhan–Khoton/Khurgan ridge, inhabiting rugged alpine basins and glaciated valleys. North Altai Argali are found east of that ridge, occupying high plateaus, tundra steppe, and the mountain systems surrounding Lake Uureg Nuur, extending north toward Russia and southeast into the uplands of western Uvs.

Despite the scientific differences, recognizing the visual differences between the two can difficult. Generally, the Northern may average slightly less in length and mass, but each year proves there are exceptions. Regardless, A North Altai Argali is one of the grandest mountain sheep in the world.

Getting There: Hunters will be met in Ulaanbaatar and assisted with firearms clearance. Depending on flight arrival times, hunters will either overnight or connect directly to the hunting area in comfortable SUVs are used to access other areas. Travel time by rad can vary between 2-5 hours depending on the exact location for the hunt.

Hunt Strategy: The hunt strategy is the same as that for the High Altai rams. The mountains of western Mongolia are generally covered in grass that is less than ankle high in most places. The high rolling terrain is highly navigable by SUVs which help cover a lot of ground for glassing. Most sheep are taken roughly between 2,300-3,000 meters (approx. 7,000 -10,000 ft.). Shots typically range from 350-550 meters (approx. 400-600 yds.) on average.

Season: July-September. Our guides apply time-tested hunt strategies for temperatures and seasonal patterns of movement during the entire season.

Length of Hunt: 11-day hunt including in-country travel days.

Options: Various combination hunts with North Altai Argali are possible, including one or more of the three other Argali species (High Altai, Hangai, and Gobi) as well as with Maral stag, Gobi Ibex, and Altai Ibex. Please inquire about individual and combination hunt options in Mongolia.

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Northern Argali

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