Yak

Bos grunniens

The domestic yak is one of the most important livestock animals in the high mountain regions of Asia. Descended from the wild yak, it is specially adapted to extreme environmental conditions and can live at elevations of more than 5,000 metres. Its dense coat protects it from the cold, while large lungs, a high number of red blood cells and an enlarged heart enable it to cope with the thin air at high altitudes.

Yaks can find enough food even on sparse mountain pastures and have remarkable endurance. In many regions, they are used as riding, pack and draught animals and provide people with milk, meat and fibre.

Wild Yak (Bos mutus):