| That's what famous wildlife
biologist George Schaller calls the takin(say TAH-KIN),one of the least-known-and
strangest-looking-of all hoofed animals with horns,and one hardly ever seen
in zoos. Takins hide in the fog-bound forests of China's central mountains,
where pandas and golden monkeys roam. The elusive and odd-looking takin
remains a mystery to science. What we do know is that the takin is not related
to bison, buffalo or cattle, despite its oxlike build. Some think it related
to the American mountain goat, and possibly the last of forest muskoxen.
The takin's horns point up instead of down like the Arctic muskox. When
startled or angry, takins can cover short distances with a quick burst of
speed. Most usually, they hide in a bamboo jungle if disturbed. They even
press their bodies against the ground with their necks outstretched like
an ostrich. Like their neighbors, China's golden monkeys, takins retreat
to high altitude-near 10,000 feet-during summer,descending to the valleys
in winter to find food. Sometimes, they attack the local villagers, killing
2 or 3 people every year. One of our colleagues got almost killed too. Accordingly,
Chinese Wildlife authorities issue about 5 hunting permits every year in
order to raise fund for the conservation. So inquire us immediately if there
are any openings available for this year. |
