Appearance

The Himalayan tahr is a relative of the goat. It measures 65-100cm

(25.6-39.4in) high not including the horns. Their body length is 90 to 140cm (35.4-55.1in). The weight of the average Himalayan tahr is 73kg (161lbs) for a male and 35kg (77lbs) for a female. The horns have a maximum length of 36cm (14.2in).

The Himalayan tahr has a thick reddish coloured coat on the top. Under this is another thick layer of hair. During winter this becomes thicker and at the end it thins again. The males have a large mane on their neck. This flows around the neck up onto the shoulders and down the front legs. Their tail is very short.

The Himalayan tahr is an even toed ungulate. This means they have an even number of toes.

Diet

Himalayan tahrs are herbivores. A vast majority of their day is spent grazing. They feed on grasses, leaves and fruits.

Range

The Himalayan tahr ranges across Nepal, China and India. An introduced population also exists in New Zealand and South Africa.

Habitat

The Himalayan tahr is adapted to mountainous environments. They live on slopes with an elevation of 2,500m to 5,000m (8,202-16,404ft).During the winter the higher areas are covered in snow meaning they cannot graze in these areas so they move to a lower height. They are also found in open woodlands.