What is a Tibetan antelope called?
Common name: Tibetan Antelope, Chiru, Orong. Scientific name:Pantholops hodgsonii. Distribution: China.
Why is Tibetan antelope being killed?
The number of Tibetan antelopes (Pantholops hodgsonii) has dwindled alarmingly because of increased demand for their fine fur, known as shahtoosh, which is woven into a high fashion scarf. As many as 20,000 Tibetan antelope are killed each year to supply the trade.
Is Tibetan antelope found in India?
In India, Tibetan antelopes are found in Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) and the Chang Chenmo Valley (CCV) in north–east Ladakh (Fig. The average altitude of these areas is 4725–5500 m, and Tibetan antelopes are found between the altitudes of 4709–4964 m (mean 4797 ± 27.9 m).
Why Tibetan antelope is important?
Why they are important Tibetan Antelopes consume plant matter which helps promote natural regrowth and biodiversity of plants. They also serve as prey for several larger predators, meaning they help to balance the ecosystem and its food chain.
How do I know my shahtoosh?
You will not see very long hairs protruding from shahtoosh, as you might in mohair, angora or lamb’s wool products. You may, however, see a few short, light colored “guard hairs” visible in the shawl. Guard hairs (kemp fibers) are coarser than human hair and appear to be crimped or crinkled.
What is a chiru animal?
Chiru, (Panthalops hodgsoni), also called Tibetan antelope, a small, gregarious, graceful antelope-like mammal of the family Bovidae (order Artiodactyla) that lives on the high alpine steppes of the Tibetan Plateau. Males carry thin, long horns that curve slightly forward; females are hornless.
What do Tibetan gazelles eat?
The Tibetan Gazelle predominantly eats forbs, shrubs, and seeds. The Gazelle has a high metabolism, due to its small size, so it requires the most nutritious forage available. Most Tibetan Gazelle males, both yearling and adult, remain separate from female gazelles between May and December.
What is chiru animal?
Is shahtoosh and Pashmina same?
Shahtoosh is the name given to the wool of the Tibetan chiru antelopes. Shahtoosh shawls are illegal in the United States. Pashmina comes from Tibetan mountain goats.
