Yak
Yaks are domestic cattle found across the Indian subcontinents, the Himalayan region, and Mongolia/Siberia. This breed descends from the larger wild yak. Scientists estimate the current wild yak population to only be 15,000 - 20,000.
Yaks are referred to as cargo animals because of their built bodies, strong legs, and well-rounded hooves. Their sure-footedness allows them to walk freely in mountainous areas where horses and sheep can't tread. Although wild yaks are usually dark, blackish to brown, domestic yaks can vary with rusty brown and cream coats. Yaks can withstand minus 40 degree temperatures by huddling up together and having their calves protected in the center.
Did you know...yak fiber is becoming the new cashmere. Cashmere comes from Mongolian goat hair, but large goat herds are threating the grassland environment due to climate change. Yaks have a light footprint, and their hair is as soft and as warm as cashmere.
Size: 4 - 5 feet height
Weight: 485 - 1300 lbs
Lifespan: 20 - 25 years