The takin, a large mammal, inhabits the remote, rugged high mountains of Asia. Its appearance, blending features of several different animals, sparks curiosity. Thriving in challenging elevated landscapes, its adaptations contribute to its enigmatic nature.
Defining the Takin
The takin (Budorcas taxicolor) is a large ungulate in the Caprinae subfamily, which includes goats and sheep. It is often called a “goat-antelope” due to its resemblance to both. While its physical resemblance to the muskox is notable, research indicates a closer genetic relationship to sheep. This unique blend of characteristics distinguishes the takin within the Bovidae family. It is also known as “cattle chamois” or “gnu goat.”
Physical Characteristics and Habitat
Takins have a robust build, standing 97-140 cm (38-55 inches) tall at the shoulder and measuring 160-220 cm (63-87 inches) long. Males weigh 300-350 kg (660–770 lb), while females are slightly smaller at 250-300 kg (550–660 lb). Their thick, shaggy coat, which varies in color from dark brown to golden, provides insulation. Both sexes have prominent, crescent-shaped horns, ridged at the base, growing outwards and upwards, that can reach 64 cm (25 inches).
The takin’s distinctive large, moose-like snout contains spacious sinus cavities that warm inhaled air, conserving body heat in frigid conditions. Its skin secretes an oily, bitter-tasting substance that provides a natural waterproof layer, protecting its coat from rain and fog. Short legs with large, two-toed hooves and developed spurs allow sure-footed movement across rocky and steep terrains. Takins inhabit the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan, China, India, and Myanmar, at altitudes from 1,000 to 4,500 meters (3,300 to 14,800 feet). They thrive in diverse environments, from forested valleys to alpine meadows.
Behavioral Adaptations and Lifestyle
Takins are herbivores, browsing on leaves, grasses, bamboo shoots, and flowers. They can stand on their hind legs to reach leaves over 3 meters (10 feet) high, and in winter, they eat twigs and evergreen leaves. Salt is a significant part of their diet; groups may remain at mineral deposits for days.
Their social structure varies seasonally. In spring and early summer, takins form large herds of up to 300 individuals on higher mountain slopes, often congregating around feeding sites or salt licks. In cooler weather, these herds disperse into smaller groups of 10-35, descending to lower, forested areas for winter. Older males are often solitary, joining herds only during the late summer mating season.
Despite their size, takins move with agility across challenging rocky slopes. They migrate between higher summer pastures and lower winter forests, often using the same well-worn paths year after year. Communication includes “cough” alarm calls that send herds seeking cover, and bellows or roars used by males during dominance displays. They also use an oily, strong-smelling substance secreted from their skin to mark objects, conveying information about identity and sexual status.