Quick answer
Urials (Ovis vignei) typically live around Around 12 years. Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
Key takeaway
Urials (Ovis vignei) typically live around Around 12 years. Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
Urial lifespan in the wild
Field and museum records place most urials near Around 12 years. That figure blends ages at death across regions, so treat it as a planning range. Body size (40–90 kg (88–198 lb)) and risk lifestyle both shape the average.
What shortens urial lives
Predation, infectious disease, injury, food shortages, and habitat fragmentation cut survival. Roadkill and human conflict matter wherever urials share landscapes with people.
What helps urials live longer
Connected habitat, low chronic stress, and reliable food support longevity. For captive or domestic relatives, species-correct diet and veterinary screening matter more than generic “pet” advice.
Urial life stages
Juveniles usually face higher mortality than prime adults. Older animals may move less, show dental wear, or lose body condition — useful signs when ageing urials in the field.
Habitat and diet
Urials favor open, dry country, from rolling grasslands to rugged foothills below the treeline. They are grazers that feed mainly on grasses and herbs, relying on keen eyesight and speed across open ground to escape wolves and other predators.
Pressure and protection
Urials are listed as Vulnerable, with populations reduced by hunting for their impressive horns and by competition with domestic livestock for grazing. Protected areas and regulated conservation programs are important to their survival.
Sources
Urial FAQs
How long do urials live?
Urials (Ovis vignei) typically live around Around 12 years. Wild averages fall when predation, disease, or habitat loss rise; managed populations can live longer with stable food and veterinary care.
What is the scientific name of the urial?
Ovis vignei — used in research and conservation listings for urials.
What do urials eat?
Urials are described as herbivores, with seasonal and regional variation in Dry hills, mountains, and grassland.
Where do urials live?
They are associated with Dry hills, mountains, and grassland. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of urials?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.