Golden Takin (Budorcas toxicolor bedfordi) |
The golden takin ( Budorcas toxicolor bedfordi) is a sub-species of takin restricted to the Qinling Mountains of Shaanxi Province.
With only 3000 golden takin existing in the wild in China, the Chinese Government has listed it as a First Category Protected Species.
The golden takin is a solid cow or goat-like animal with stocky legs for mountain climbing and a thick woollen metallic-gold to cream coloured coat to protect it from the cold winters in the Qinling Mountains. Atop of its large head are a pair of outward curving horns that can reach to over 25cm (5’’) in length. Male golden takin can weigh over 350 kg (770lb) and stand 130 – 140cm (4’ 6’’) tall at the shoulder while females are much smaller weighing up to 250kg (550lb).
Golden takin are plentiful in Changqing with tracks, scats and other traces allowing our expert trackers to locate animals when they are nearby. During the winter months the takin descend the mountains to escape the cold of winter and to browse on more nutritious vegetation. During the day Takin generally rest, choosing to spend their mornings and late afternoons to move around and graze.
The majority of male takin are generally solitary however they have been recorded in herds of between 10—35 animals. Takin are occasionally disturbed while browsing by hikers passing through. Importantly, the powerful golden takin can be aggressive if cornered or frightened. Reserve staff can guide you to safely observe golden takin in Changqing
With all wildlife viewing there can, unfortunately, be no guarantees. Changqing does, however, guarantee a good chance of viewing golden takin in the wild. And whatever time of year you come, our guides will show you tracks and scats, feeding and sleeping sites, and tell you many tales about the golden takin of Changqing.
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