ANIMAL HIGHLIGHT

The Stumberg Sheep is a hybrid sheep species primarily bred and hunted as a trophy animal in Texas. 

• Origin: The breed was created in the 20th century (specifically around 1967) by Louis Stumberg at The Patio Ranch in Hunt, Texas. It was developed by crossing European Mouflon ewes with an Argali ram from the Oklahoma City Zoo due to a lack of Argali ewes for conservation efforts.
• Physical Characteristics: These sheep combine the coloration and body markings of a Mouflon with the larger size and flared horn shape of an Argali. Rams typically weigh around 150 pounds and can sport massive horns exceeding 40 inches in length.
• Hunting: They are considered the largest exotic sheep available for hunting in Texas. They are typically hunted year-round on private ranches like The Patio Ranch and Texas Hunt Lodge.
• Distribution: While native to the Texas Hill Country, they have also been bred in other regions, including Pennsylvania and Minnesota, as they are noted for being hardy in cold climates.