Afghanistan has reaped rewards and suffering based on its geographic location in Central Asia. The “Silk Road” served as a vital connection in the advancement of prosperity between European and Asian merchants, but unfortunately it also attracted ancient and modern invaders determined to control Afghanistan.
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Ovis ammon polii - The Marco Polo sheep is a sub-species of the mountain goat, a wild sheep found throughout Central Asia. Marco Polo sheep are known for their long spiraling horns. Attaining lengths of 55 centimeters, they have the longest horns of any sheep. The horns have the greatest growth during the first year of the ram’s life. Each new season produces an offset from earlier seasons and creates a ring pattern similar to trees. This allows the age of male sheep to be accurately determined; females do not carry horns.
