Range

China and the eastern Himalayas form the native range of the Sichuan takin. Here they are found at heights of between 1219 and 4267m (4,000-14,000ft).

Habitat

They can be found in alpine forests, taiga, temperate forests and barren grasslands.

Reproduction

Mating takes place between July and August. During the rut (breeding season) a small herd is formed. The male will bellow as a means of attracting a female and letting other males know they are there. Sometimes they find a female by tracking her scent. When a pair comes together the male licks her to determine if she is receptive.

Seven to eight months after a successful mating a single calf is generally born with twins being born on rare occasions. After thirty minutes they are on their feet and by three days old it is exploring most terrain varieties. This helps them escape predators or travel to food.

Takin kids can blend in better with their environment at birth as they are dark brown in colour. An even darker stripe runs down the back. On their forehead is a white patch of hair.

They will nurse until two months old at which point they transition to solid food. They may not leave their mum till she has another calf a year after their birth. At six months old their horns start to come through.

Females achieve sexual maturity at 4 ½ years old while it takes males another year to reach this milestone.

Behaviour

Snow leopards hunt young takin but are not able to bring down an adult. Bears and wolves are able to hunt adults.

During the day they hide in dense vegetation and will rest. When sleeping they rest their head on their outstretched legs.

Takins will form groups mostly composing of females. Males are solitary only joining a herd to breed. Groups average 10-35 individuals but some may have 100 individuals.

Quick facts

The blonde coat of the takin is believed to have inspired the legend of Jason and the Golden Fleece.