The Racka (pronounced Hungarian [ˈrɒts.kɒ]) or Hortobágy Racka Sheep is a breed of sheep known for its unusual spiral-shaped horns.[1] These unique appendages are unlike any other domestic sheep horns, and may grow up to 2feet long. The smallest standard length is 20inches for rams and 12- for ewes.
The breed has been kept by Hungarians for many centuries and was once the most common variety in Hungary. The largest stocks are found in the Hortobágy steppes of Hungary and to a lesser extent in Caras Severin, Romania. Because of its unique features it has been exported in growing numbers to the United Kingdom, United States and France, while in its home range interest remains limited. It is a hardy, multi-purpose breed used for milking, wool and meat.[2] Their wool is long and coarse, and appears in two general types: a cream wool with light brown faces and legs, and a black variation. Ewes weigh around 88lb, and rams 132lb.[3]
The breed's unique appearance and quiet disposition make it a desirable animal for hobbyists.[4]
This breed is unique with both sexes possessing long spiraling shaped horns, which protrude almost straight upward from the top of the head.[3]
There are two major color patterns with the Racka. The most common color is brown wool covering the heads and legs with the fiber varying in color from dark brown to light brown and white. Individuals can also be solid black. The wool tips on the black-colored sheep fades to a reddish black with exposure to sunlight and as they get older, the points of the fiber turns gray. The fiber diameter varies within this breed and generally is found to be 12 to 40 micrometres with a yield of 38% to 65%. Staple length is approximately 30cm (10inches). Fleece weight must be at least 3kg (07lb) for rams. The softness and crimp of the wool would indicate its interest with hand spinners.[3]
The minimum acceptable mature body weight for ewes is 40kg (90lb) and for rams 60kg (130lb). The rams average 72cm (28inches) in height.[3]
The sheep were traditionally kept for both milk and meat.[5] The fleece is coarse.[6]