Budorcas is a genus of large, bovine mammals belonging to the family Bovidae, native to the mountainous regions of Asia. The genus comprises two species: the Himalayan tahr (Budorcas taxicolor) and the Chinese goral (Budorcas bedfordi).
The Himalayan tahr, also known as "Jharal" or "Himalayan goat," is a goat-like ungulate characterized by its robust build, shaggy coat, and a distinctive arched profile. It typically inhabits steep, rocky slopes at high altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 meters above sea level. With a head-body length of about 100 to 150 centimeters and weighing up to 150 kilograms, it is well adapted to survive in extreme alpine environments.
The Chinese goral, on the other hand, is a smaller species, measuring around 100 centimeters in length and weighing up to 45 kilograms. It has a compact body structure, short legs, and long, backward-curving horns. This species is found in the forested mountains of southwestern China, northern Myanmar, and northeastern India. Chinese gorals are known for their agility and climbing abilities, navigating rugged terrain with ease.
Both species of Budorcas are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation. They are known to form small groups, typically consisting of a male, several females, and their offspring. These mountain ungulates play an important role in the ecosystems they inhabit, contributing to nutrient cycling and shaping plant communities.
Conservation efforts are important for protecting Budorcas species due to habitat destruction, poaching, and competition with livestock. Despite facing certain threats, these magnificent creatures represent a
