Domestic yak
A species of Cow, Also known as Wild yak Scientific name : Bos grunniens Genus : Cow
Domestic yak, A species of Cow
Also known as:
Wild yak
Scientific name: Bos grunniens
Genus: Cow
Content
Description General Info
Description
Wild yaks are among the largest bovids and are second only to the gaur in shoulder height. They are also the largest native animal in their range. Wild yak adults stand about 1.6 to 2.2 m (5.2 to 7.2 ft) tall at the shoulder and weigh 305–1,000 kg (672–2,205 lb). The head and body length is 2.5 to 3.3 m (8.2 to 11 ft), not counting the tail of 60 to 100 cm (24 to 39 in). The females are about one-third the weight and are about 30% smaller in their linear dimensions when compared to bull wild yaks. Domesticated yaks are somewhat smaller. They are heavily built animals with a bulky frame, sturdy legs, and rounded cloven hooves. To protect against the cold, the udder in females and the scrotum in males are small and covered in a layer of hair. Females have four teats. Both sexes have long shaggy hair with a dense woolly undercoat over the chest, flanks, and thighs for insulation against the cold. In males especially, this undercoat may form a long "skirt" that can reach the ground. The tail is long and horse-like rather than tufted like the tails of cattle or bison. The coat is typically black or dark brown covering most of the body, with a grey muzzle, although some wild golden-brown individuals have been reported. Wild yaks with gold coloured hair are known as the Wild Golden Yak (Chinese: 金色野牦牛; pinyin: jīnsèyě máoniú). They are considered an endangered subspecies by China, with an estimated population of 170 left in the wild.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Domestic yak primarily feed on grasses, having adapted to harsh, high-altitude habitats with sparse vegetation. They also consume lichens and certain herbs, proving their efficient use of meager resources.
Appearance
Domestic yak, also known as the yak, is a large bovine with a hefty frame. Its bulky body is covered in long, shaggy fur, mostly black or brown, offering protection in harsh climates. Cows are smaller than bulls, which display impressive horns curving upwards on either side of their head. Unique features include a horse-like tail and a hump over its shoulders. Adult domestic yak may develop a patch of pale fur on their rump.
Behavior
Domestic yak exhibits a unique, versatile, and adaptive behavior, best suited to survive in high, harsh elevations. This species is known for its strong social dynamics, often living and migrating in large herds. They are renowned for their distinctive communication pattern, involving grunting noises, which help maintain herd unity. While generally passive, males show territorial behavior during mating season.