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Sichuan Takin

Budorcas taxicolor tibetana

Did you know?

  • Takins, like cows and sheep, have a four-chambered stomach.
  • Bulls weigh over 800 pounds, while the females weigh only about 500 pounds.
  • Takins warn the herd of danger by emitting a loud “snort.” They also can roar or bellow.
  • A female’s gestation (pregnancy) is seven to eight months, and typically one calf is born.
  • Takins love plants and enjoy eating the leaves of oak and willow trees, as well as pine bark, bamboo leaves and herbs.


Rockin’ Around

The takin (rhymes with rockin') is an antelope-like goat and a relative of the musk ox. The Sichuan takin browses in the dense bamboo forests of China. The takins live in herds and have few predators besides humans.

Very Remote

Wild takin behavior is not well known, partly because they live in such remote areas. Scientists do know, however, that the number of wild takins is declining due to hunting and habitat destruction. Fortunately, these animals are considered national treasures by the Chinese government and are fully protected by law.

Threat Level

  • Unknown
  • Common
  • Near Threatened
  • Threatened
  • Endangered
  • Critically Endangered
  • Extinct in the Wild

Vulnerable

The Sichuan Takin's wild population is decreasing, and this species faces a high risk of extinction in the wild.

Range

Western China

Habitat

Mountainous bamboo forests

We care about Sichuan takins

The Saint Louis Zoo participates in the Species Survival Plan for Sichuan takin, a cooperative breeding program that helps ensure a healthy population of animals. We also support them in Red Rocks at the Zoo. Learn more about how we are helping wildlife around the world.

Dedicated to Conservation

Find this animal in Red Rocks

SAINT LOUIS ZOO ZONE

Red Rocks

At Red Rocks, you’ll view some of the world’s most powerful predators living near some of the world’s most graceful prey. Lions, tigers, zebra and giraffes all share the natural rocky boulders and outcroppings as their territory. With shading trees and a bird or two among the mammals, Red Rocks is a great place to spend a day at the Saint Louis Zoo.

Explore Red Rocks