In terms of bighorn sheep, what does ewe refer to?

The term "ewe" specifically refers to an adult female bighorn sheep. In the context of sheep and many other animal species, the terminology is significant in distinguishing between sexes. Ewes play a critical role in the reproductive cycle and social structure of bighorn sheep herds.

For instance, ewes are primarily responsible for giving birth and raising the young lambs. They typically exhibit behaviors that are vital for the survival and nurturing of their offspring. Understanding the role of ewes in bighorn sheep ecology is essential for wildlife management and conservation efforts.

The other choices, such as the young-of-the-year sheep or adult males, denote different life stages or sexes of the species and do not accurately reflect the definition of a ewe. A group of bighorn sheep implies a collective behavior or social structure but does not address the specific individual classification of being a female, which is what identifying a ewe entails.