Domestic yak

Domestic yak (Bos grunniens) is a long-haired domesticated bovid found throughout the Himalayan region of the Indian subcontinent, the Tibetan Plateau, Northern Myanmar, Yunnan, and Sichuan. It is descended from the wild yak (Bos mutus).

Characteristics

The domestic yak is a large animal, often measuring 3.25 to 4.5 feet at the shoulder and weighing between 800 and 1,200 pounds. They have a dense coat of hair, which protects them from the harsh winter conditions of their native habitats. The hair can be black, brown, or white, and is often used to make yarn and fabric.

Uses

Domestic yaks are used for various purposes by the people of the Himalayas. They are primarily used as beasts of burden, carrying heavy loads over difficult terrain. They are also used for their milk, meat, and hide. Yak milk is often turned into butter and cheese, and the meat is a staple food. The hide is used for making leather goods.

Breeding and Management

Yaks are typically bred in the late summer or early fall, and the gestation period lasts for about nine months. The young, called calves, are usually born in the spring. Yaks are managed in a variety of ways, depending on the region and the specific needs of the people. In some areas, they are kept in fenced pastures, while in others they are allowed to roam freely and are rounded up as needed.

Health Issues

Like all animals, yaks can suffer from a variety of health issues. These can include parasitic infections, respiratory diseases, and injuries from accidents or fights with other yaks. They can also suffer from malnutrition if they do not get enough to eat, especially during the harsh winter months.

Conservation Status

While the domestic yak is not considered to be at risk, the wild yak is listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. Efforts are being made to protect the wild yak population and its habitat.

See Also

• Wild yak
• Bovidae
• Domestication of animals