Racka

The Racka (pronounced /rɑːtskɑː/ Hungarian [ˈrɒts.kɒ]), or Hortobágy Racka Sheep, is an endangered breed of sheep originating in Hungary, known for its curly and crimped wool and unusual spiral-shaped horns, which are seen on both the rams and the ewes (albeit slightly shorter on the females).^[1] These unique appendages are unlike any other domestic sheep horns, and may grow up to 2.0 ft (0.61 m) long, growing at a roughly 45-degree, diagonal angle; the shortest standard length is 20 in (51 cm) for rams and 12–15 in (30–38 cm) for ewes.

Although the Racka has been kept by Hungarians for several centuries,^{[citation needed]} once being the most common sheep breed in the country, it is now considered a rare species, with an estimated 2,500 animals remaining.^[1] Today, the largest flocks are found in the Hortobágy steppes of Hungary and, to a lesser extent, in Caraș-Severin, Romania. However, due to its unique features, it has seen popularity abroad, being exported in growing numbers to the United Kingdom,^[2] United States and France; while in its home range interest remains limited.^{[citation needed]} It is a hardy, multi-purpose breed used for milking, wool and meat.^[3] Their wool is long and coarse, and appears in two general types: a cream or off-white (on animals with light brown to apricot skin), and a black to dark brown variation (with black skin). Ewes weigh around 88 lb (40 kg) and rams 132 lb (60 kg).^[4]

The breed's unique appearance and quiet disposition make it a desirable animal for hobbyists.^[5] The British Racka Sheep Society has stated that the breed has a high sensitivity to its environment, being especially wary of perceived "threats" like loud noises or machinery, as well as being alert for predators; these characteristics make the breed somewhat flighty, easily spooked and potentially difficult to contain or capture, if needed.^[2]