Class: MAMMALIA

Order: ARTIODACTYLA

Family: BOVIDAE

Genus: BUDORCAS

Species: TAXICOLOR

This large, herbivorous mammal is classified as just one species in its monotypic genus, and is native to relatively small areas of South East Asia. Four subspecies of takin are currently recognised – the Mishmi and Bhutan Takins both have a similar hide of varied brown, though the Sichuan and Golden Takins are more yellow. Where the Sichuan Takin’s yellowish hide has areas of brown and black fur, the Golden Takin is entirely yellow. Sometimes referred to as a 'goat-antelope', the takin is closely related to sheep and goats, though superficially resembles antelope. Superficial features, specifically the takin's horns, put it in an evolutionary link with the musk-ox, though this is now seen as a result of convergent evolution. The oldest known remains attributed to takins appear some 3 million years ago in Asia, though fossils attributed to takins have also been found in Africa.

Although the four takin sub-species differ somewhat in colouration, their body plan is virtually identical, as they share similar habitat. The ram may weigh some 350 kilograms, though its agility is not to be compromised - it is very capable of navigating harsh surfaces, in all the same respects as the mountain-goats of North America, which is the takin's closest living relative. Sturdy hooves of the takin make for relatively easy climbing of mountain edges. The coloured hide works as camouflage amongst the montane forests. Where the air of the takin’s mountainous habitat is cold and harsh, a thick nasal passage, making for a sizable snout, helps to warm the mountain air so the takin can breathe easily. Similar to other mountain ungulates, the takin also has a thick coat of hair.