The Blue Sheep, local name Bharal, has a bluish sheen in the coat and possesses distinctive horns that are ridged on the upper surface. Interestingly, the males have horns that grow upwards, turn sideways and curve backwards, looking somewhat like an upside-down mustache.

However, females have horns that are much shorter and straighter. Bharal are active throughout the day, alternating between feeding and resting on the grassy mountain slopes. Due to their excellent camouflage and the absence of cover in their environment, Bharal remain motionless when approached.

In Pakistan, the estimated population of the blue sheep is 1000 to 1500, present in Shimshal valley, Sakhtarabad nullah, Gojal areas, and Khunjerab National Park. Bharal are the favorite prey of the snow leopard and provide a significant prey base to the iconic species.

The blue sheep are illegally hunted in most of its ranges. Therefore, detailed population assessment and conservation measures are of the utmost need for these species