The Kurant is a fantastic mythical beast. It is still used in Kuranti rituals that take place in the area of Ptuj in the district of Maribor, Slovenia, in mid-February. The custom originated in agricultural and fertility rites designed to hasten and welcome the coming of Spring. In villages, these boistrous rituals stil feature the capturing of a devil by these remarkable shaggy beasts with sheep's fur, feathers, horns and bird-like beaks on painted leather faces. The Kurant seems to be neither bad nor good but a wild power that is harnessed on these occassions. The performance also allows young men to show off their strength and agility, though very recently some women have begun to wear masks as well. The custom has spread from the village of Markovci into the town of Ptuj itself and groups now dance as "ethnographic" displays in a larger Carnival/Fasching calendar, with influences from Venice and the Rhein valley (complete with baton twirlers, polkas and rock music, clown costumes, and a moped display). The Kuranti masks themselves have become more elaborate in recent years, often adding ribbons and more feathers in place of horns previously featured. Approximately 300 participants own masks and costumes in Ptuj itself.