Coloration varies from creamy white to dark gray and brown. Some males possess a fringe of long hair down the front of the neck, but they do not have a beard such as is present in Capra. Also unlike all goats, there is no gland at the base of the tail. Ovis has a narrow nose and pointed ears. The horns of females are much smaller and only slightly curved.
Some domestic breeds are hornless.
Females have two mammae. Wild sheep are usually found in upland areas. This species is very alert, has remarkable eyesight, is an excellent climber, and swims freely. When alarmed, it bounds away over jagged rocks with surprising speed and agility. Sheep may feed intermittently throughout the day or rest during the hottest hours, and they are sometimes active at night.