Argali
The argali is the largest wild sheep in the world, the giant of the mountains of Central Asia whose Marco Polo subspecies carries the longest horns of any sheep.
🗓️ Last reviewed: July 2026
Overview
The argali is the largest wild sheep in the world, the giant of the mountains of Central Asia whose Marco Polo subspecies carries the longest horns of any sheep. Hunting one is the ultimate high-altitude mountain-sheep adventure, pursued only under strict permits.
Identification & Appearance
Argali are huge, long-legged mountain sheep, grayish-brown with a white rump and neck ruff, and massive, wide-sweeping curled horns on rams - the Marco Polo form famous for extreme horn length. They dwarf all other wild sheep.
Range & Habitat
They live on the high plateaus, rolling mountains and alpine steppe of Central Asia - Mongolia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and neighboring ranges - often above 12,000 feet.
Behavior & Sign
Argali roam vast high-altitude country in bands, are extremely wary with superb eyesight, and cover long distances daily. Sign includes tracks, droppings and beds on the high slopes.
Hunting Seasons & Timing
Hunted in the cold months under permit, involving long horseback and foot travel across remote high country.
Hunting Methods
Extreme high-altitude spot-and-stalk with local guides and horses, glassing enormous country for a mature ram and making a long approach and shot.
Gear & Optics
A flat-shooting mountain rifle capable of longer shots, the best optics available, and full expedition gear for altitude, cold and remoteness.
Shot Placement & Field Care
A precise, well-supported shot at often long range in thin air; the massive horns are the trophy. Recovery and caping are handled with the outfitter.
Meat & Eating Quality
Meat is used locally; argali is hunted as a premier mountain trophy.
Common Mistakes
Underestimating the altitude, expense and physical demands of a true expedition hunt.
Regulations & Conservation
Argali are CITES-listed and hunted only through a very limited number of costly permits that fund conservation across their remote range. Always work through a licensed outfitter and confirm CITES import rules. This is a reading guide, not legal advice.
FAQ
Largest wild sheep? Yes - argali, with the Marco Polo form carrying the longest horns.
How is it hunted? A permit-only expedition across the high mountains of Central Asia.