If the population were to increase, the surrounding mountain habitat would be sufficient to sustain only 2,000 ibex.

[2][3] Given the small distribution range of the Walia ibex in its restricted mountain ecosystem, the presence of many domestic goats may pose a serious threat that can directly affect the population's survival.

[4] These animals have a chocolate-brown to chestnut-brown coat coloration, greyish-brown muzzle, and a lighter grey in the eyes and legs.

The males weigh 80–125 kg (180–280 lb) and have very large horns which curve backwards, reaching lengths up to 110 cm (43 in).

The Walia ibex lives in very steep, rocky cliff areas between 2,500 and 4,500 m (8,200 and 14,800 ft) high.

Their diets include bushes, herbs, lichens, shrubs, grasses, and creepers.

Walia ibex are most active in the morning and evening and will rest in the sun on rock ledges.

The pressure and competition for natural resources have seen a constant increase in the past decades.

The most important stronghold for their survival is now the 13,600 ha (34,000 acres) sized Semien National Park which was established in 1969.

The Walia ibex is considered to be vulnerable by the IUCN and needs further conservation measures to survive.