![[Video] Bighorn sheep takes on family's SUV crossing through Jackson Hole, WY](https://atlaswebrise.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/bighorn-sheep-1024x682.jpg)
It’s called the National Elk Refuge, but a herd of Bighorn sheep entered the scene.
In a wildlife refuge in Teton County, Wyoming, a family was packed into their SUV and making their way through Jackson Hole. The refuge was established in 1912 to help protect one of the largest populations of Elk in the country. Alone on the snowy, mountainous road, the family found itself surrounded not by elk, but by a herd of Bighorn sheep.
One of the sheep seemed curious at first…but soon turned furious
Bighorn sheep are native to North America. Known for their large sets of thick, tightly curled horns, their crowns might weigh upwards of 30 pounds. All told, the animals can hit over 300 pounds each.
In the clip, provided by travel advisor and mom of four Liz Petersen Thomas, the family sounds ecstatic at the herd’s proximity.
Laughing, they see a certain Bighorn sheep refusing to budge from its position. It’s directly facing the right front corner of the SUV. Slowly, the driver attempts to turn away from the animal.
It turns out the hoofed native was licking the car. This isn’t an unheard-of behavior: Alaskans are reminded annually of “Moose-Licking Season.” This is when moose approach cars to lick the accumulated salt off vehicle surfaces during winter months.
Unfortunately, the salt-licking Bighorn didn’t like it when the SUV tried to leave
While the car creeps away, the sheep decides to ram the right quarter panel. “Oh my gosh! It just hit our car!” Thomas exclaims, who’s driving.
As the vehicle moves down the road, the Bighorn follows. They lose sight of it for a moment, until its horns peek around the back.
Then, it rams the SUV again…hard.
“Mom, go!” her son yells. They pick up speed and head out, leaving the herd behind them. While there wasn’t any major damage, it’s possible the Bighorn sheep left dents in the panels it rammed. In any case, the family sure seemed to enjoy the interaction.
Keep in mind that the National Park Service warns visitors that they are responsible for their own safety and the safety of animals living inside protected parks.
