Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Arabian Tahr

Scientific name: Hemitragus jayakari


Arabian Tahr

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

Family: BOVIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Shy

Safe distance: 50 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.10-31.12

Gestation: 5–6 mois

Births: 01.03-30.04


Habitat:
Rocky mountains, cliffs, steep slopes

Description:
The Arabian tahr, Hemitragus jayakari, is a species of wild goat native to the arid mountains of Oman and the United Arab Emirates. This robust mammal is well adapted to rugged, rocky terrains, where it primarily feeds on grasses, leaves, and fruits. Males are distinguished by their thick, curved horns, while females have smaller horns. Its dense, brownish coat allows it to blend into its rocky environment. The Arabian tahr is a gregarious animal, living in small groups, although adult males are often solitary. This species is threatened by habitat loss and hunting, leading to its classification as vulnerable by the IUCN.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Arabian tahr, it's essential to blend into the environment to avoid startling it. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. The best times to observe it are early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the animal is most active. Be patient and wait for the tahr to move naturally in its habitat. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that might scare it away.

Ready to take action?

Choose your platform and start your free trial today