A large fenced enclosure, originally established as a zoo is now the Motithang Takin Preserve. Takins are a rare type of goat-antelope living in the Eastern Himalayas. The four subspecies of the Takin live in high altitudes throughout Bhutan, Northeast India, Northwest Myanmar, and the Chinese section of the Himalaya. It's worthwhile taking out time to see these oddball mammals.
About Takin Takin was recognized as the national animal of Bhutan in 2005 due to its strong association with the history of Bhutan. It looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. According to local legend, a 15th-century saint invented the curious creature after he agreed to conjure up a miracle in exchange for lunch. He then slapped the head of a goat atop a cow’s skeleton and brought this new animal to life. The animals’ protracted noses, large heads, and sturdy torsos give them a distinctive look. Although the animal resembles a muskox, it is actually more genetically similar to sheep; this is why biologists and zoologists are all keen to study more about this creature.
History of Motithang Takin Preserve The history behind this preserve is quite interesting. Few years ago, the fourth king of Bhutan decided that the zoo was not in keeping with Bhutan’s environmental and religious convictions, and so it was dispersed, and the animals were released into the wild. But the Takins were so domestic and docile that they wandered around the streets of Thimphu looking for food and shelter. So, the only solution was to put them back in.
About Motithang Takin Preserve Motithang Takin is an enclosed area in the woods away from the settlement, and houses herds of Takin and some other rare animals such as Muntjac deer, Sambar, and Serow. The idea behind creating the Mothithang Takin Preserve was to provide shelter to the capital city’s four legged animals. The Takins now live within the 8.4 acres of carefully managed forest land. It’s because of the Takin’s status as the national animal; they are being given proper care and attention by the Bhutanese authorities. The best time to see the Takins is early morning, when they gather near the fence to feed. Other Takins roam in the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve in India.
The Preserve has been an essential part of Thimphu city and is one of the tourist attractions in Thimphu. The tourist can enjoy a short stroll in the nature around the enclosed area and watch these magnificent mammals.
South Asia is home to solid one-third of the world’s population. The region is home to the highest and the second highest mountain peaks of the world Everest and K2. Housing marvels such as the Taj Mahal, Ajanta, Sigiriya, Timpu, and Taxila, the heritage and cultures of the region date back thousands of years.
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