Pronunciation: [mˈʌflɒn] (IPA) 
Mufflon (or Mouflon) is a wild sheep that is native to the mountains of Europe and Asia. The spelling of the word comes from the French mouflon, which is pronounced /muflɔ̃/. The stress falls on the second syllable. In English, the word is pronounced /mʌflən/ with the stress on the first syllable. The double 'f' is a remnant of the French spelling, and the 'o' is a result of the anglicization of the word.
Mufflon refers to a wild sheep species, scientifically known as Ovis orientalis. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. The word "mufflon" is derived from the Persian word "mouflon," which means "sheep with curved horns."
Mufflons are medium-sized animals with a robust build, standing around two to three feet tall at the shoulder. They possess a thick coat of wool that varies in color among individuals, typically ranging from brown to reddish-brown. Males are larger than females, with mature rams weighing up to 100 kilograms.
One of the most distinctive features of mufflons is their magnificent curved horns, which are present in both males and females. The horns possess a spiral shape, projecting outward and backward from the head. The horns serve various purposes, including defense against predators and competing for mates during the mating season.
Mufflons are herbivorous animals, feeding mainly on grasses, herbs, and shrubs. They are known for their agility and adaptability to harsh environmental conditions, thriving in rugged terrains and mountainous landscapes.
Due to habitat loss, trophy hunting, and competition with domesticated sheep, the populations of wild mufflons have significantly declined over the years. However, conservation efforts have been implemented to protect and restore their habitats, ensuring their survival in designated wildlife reserves. Mufflons have also been introduced into various countries worldwide for game hunting or conservation purposes.
The word "Mufflon" has its origin in the German language, specifically from the dialect of the Swabian region. It is derived from the term "Muflə" or "Mufla", which means "wild sheep" in the Swabian dialect. The word was later adapted into German as "Mufflon" and eventually adopted into English with the same spelling.
