Cikta

The Cikta is the surviving descendant of the Zaupelschaf, the western/north-western type of the Central European landrace sheep that was widespread in the Middle Ages. It came to Hungary in several waves in the 18th century: German settlers brought it, and landowners also imported it for its wool, finer than that of the local sheep. The Hungarian word “birka” (sheep) became common as these sheep spread.

Crossing with Merino pushed it back; it survived longest in Baranya and Tolna counties, mainly thanks to the Danube Swabian population, where it was known as Cikta or Swabian sheep. When a decree on preserving indigenous breeds was issued in 1974, its breeding had to be restarted with a few dozen animals.

A small, strong and lean sheep with a lively, alert temperament and good lamb-rearing ability; a large share of animals tend to come into heat out of season. Its hooves are strong and healthy, and it is not prone to foot diseases. The body is covered by hanging, white wool in locks whose annual growth can exceed 20 cm.