Takin, << TAH kihn, >> is a large hoofed mammal closely related to goats, sheep, and musk oxen. Takins live in central, western, and southwestern China, in Myanmar, and in the Himalaya. They inhabit dense bamboo forests and thickets of rhododendrons on steep, rugged slopes.
Takins resemble musk oxen, with stout forelegs, a large head, and a thick neck. They have shaggy fur that varies from blackish-brown to golden or yellowish-white. A stripe runs along the middle of the back. Both males and females grow horns, but the females’ horns are smaller. Takins measure up to 31/2 feet (107 centimeters) tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 770 pounds (350 kilograms). Males are heavier than females.
Takins are active mostly at dusk and dawn, but they may be active throughout the day in foggy or cloudy weather. Normally, they spend the daylight hours hidden in dense vegetation. During the warm months, takins feed primarily on young trees, grass, and tender herbs. In winter, they eat mostly the tips of bamboo stems and willow branches.
During the summer, takins gather in large herds led by an old bull (male). In winter, the herds are smaller and move to valleys at lower elevations. Takins mate in July or August. The cow (female) gives birth to a single young, called a kid, in March or April.
