The takin belongs to a group of large, hoofed mammals called the goat antelopes, which share characteristics with both goats and antelopes. Living high up in the mountains, the takin wears a thick coat of dark, shaggy fur to keep warm in winter, similar to its more well-known relative, the musk ox.
The takin eats just about anything green and is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. In between meals, the takin rests.
- An oily substance secreted from the takin’s skin forms a waterproof layer of protection.
- To reach higher leaves, a takin might stand on its hind legs while resting its front legs on the tree’s trunk.
- The takin alerts other members of its herd to an approaching bear or wolf with a coughing sound.
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