Hellabrunn Zoo is thrilled to announce the birth of a new baby Mishmi takin. Born at the end of last week, the new arrival represents an important step forward in the conservation of the species, following the successful integration of a new breeding bull into the herd in autumn 2024. The little takin kid is already on its feet and happily exploring its enclosure.
The breeding success is particularly gratifying, as Hellabrunn Zoo participates in the EAZA Ex-situ Programme (EEP) for this endangered species. The aim of the programme is to establish a stable safety-net population in European zoos and thus make an important contribution to the long-term conservation of the species.
The Mishmi takin is one of the world’s least-known ungulates. Its robust build is reminiscent of a musk ox, yet it also exhibits characteristics of a goat. This unique combination makes it perfectly adapted to the harsh conditions of its natural habitat. Mishmi takins can only be found in and around the remote Mishmi Hills in the mountainous eastern Himalayan border regions of India, China, Bhutan and Myanmar. They are excellent climbers and can navigate steep and rocky slopes with ease.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Mishmi takin as vulnerable on its Red List. The main threats are habitat loss due to increasing deforestation and infrastructure development, as well as illegal hunting. However, little is known about how their population size is dwindling as the regions they inhabit are difficult to access and their elusive nature makes them hard to spot.
The birth of the new offspring represents an important contribution to the conservation of this extraordinary and rare species. It also offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about the successful conservation work at Hellabrunn Zoo - just in time for the start of spring.
Hellabrunn Zoo is currently home to one adult bull and two female takins, bringing hope for further offspring in the future.