Marco Polo Sheep
August 14, 2007
The Marco Polo Sheep (Ovis ammon polii), is a subspecies of sheep, specifically the Argali. These sheep are found only in the Pamir Mountains in the border region of China, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajikistan. Some of the protected areas where the species occurs include the Khunjerab National Park and Central Karakoram National Park in northern Pakistan and the Taxkongau Nature Reserve in southwestern China.
The Marco Polo sheep is particularly known for its long horns. The longest horn ever found on a sheep was found on a Marco Polo sheep and measured 75 inches. These animals are endangered and number only about 6,000 specimens. The Marco Polo Sheep is named for famed explorer Marco Polo.