High up in the mist-shrouded mountains of Bhutan, where myths are alive, and mountains are worshipped, there lives a legendary creature. Like the fantasy movies where genetic engineering is involved, you might find it coming straight out of a novel. Cause it has the head of a goat, the body of a moose, and the aura of a legendary beast. But don’t be scared, it’s strangely adorable. As divine as it seems, it is like a riddle between the earthly and the heavenly, a bridge between realms. We are talking about the Takin, a legendary animal as bizarre as its origin, which is also the national animal of Bhutan.
Our country has the Royal Bengal Tiger as its national animal. So, if you are imagining a Majestic Tiger or a stealthy Eagle as the national animal of Bhutan, think again. Bhutan is a country that measures its GDP by happiness, a land where legends breathe in nature. It has chosen Takin, an animal that perfectly embodies its folklore, myth, and spirituality. It is Bhutan’s legend wrapped in fur, and it’s golden hue.
But why is it considered a legend or the divine madman? Actually, the name ‘Divine Madman’ came from its supposed creator, Drukpa Kunley. According to the Bhutanese folklore, he was a wandering Tibetan monk. He was no ordinary man. He was the one affectionately called the Divine Madman. His powers were undeniable. He was humble, humorous, and full of wisdom. His teachings enlightened people. One day, his followers wanted to see him perform a miracle, and the legend says, he picked up the bones of a goat and the skull of a cow, shaped it as an animal, and with the snap of his fingers, he brought it back to life. A new but miraculous animal. He named it the Takin. This divine creature became Bhutan’s national animal.
Beyond the myths, the Takin is really majestic. It is a large mountain mammal that lives in high-altitude rocky mountains, way above sea level. Besides Bhutan, it is also found in India and China. It’s usually found in a group of about 20 individuals; however, in the summer, a herd of 300 or more individuals gathers high on the mountain slopes. When they feel disturbed, they cough to give a warning, and the herd retreats. One of the fun facts about it is that it produces an oily layer that acts as a raincoat. It’s a sturdy bovid, well adapted to rugged mountain terrain. This golden-haired beast is a walking contradiction.
Takin (Budorcas taxicolor) was previously placed together with the Muscox. But it is actually a bovid, according to the recent scientific research. But more importantly, Takin is really endangered right now. Due to climate change and habitat loss, they are at risk of extinction. The IUCN Red List classifies it as vulnerable. Moreover, in China, it is considered to be at severe risk. Furthermore, its existence is threatened by illegal wildlife trade. In Myanmar, Takin’s horns have been openly sold, which is quite alarming. Fortunately, the Bhutanese Government is taking measures to protect its national animal.
The Takin is said to be Bhutan’s heartbeat in fur and horn. As it carries the blessings of the divine madman, it is thought to be the guardian of the northern valleys and slopes. It represents that the boundary between reality and myth is fragile. Takin’s silhouette resonates with mystery and wonder. Its existence also teaches us that the world’s most wonderful things are hiding even right before our eyes.
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Writer
Ifraat Jahan Esha
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE