A rare Himalayan animal is making its Calgary Zoo debut this summer

This summer, the Calgary Zoo is introducing a truly special new animal to its lineup, and it’s one you’ve probably never seen before.

As part of the zoo’s new Asian Highlands area, visitors will soon be able to meet the Sichuan takin, a rare species native to the mountainous forests of China, known for its distinctive appearance and robust build. It is often described as a blend of a goat, antelope, and muskox.

The addition is part of the larger Imagine Asia redevelopment, designed to bring guests closer to wildlife and landscapes of the eastern Himalayas.

About the Sichuan Takin

The Sichuan takin has quite an unforgettable look. With its stocky body, thick golden coat, and a large moose-like nose, it doesn’t quite look like any other animal.

Their oversized nose actually plays an important role, warming the cold mountain air before it reaches the lungs and serving as a natural heat exchanger. Their dense, oily fur provides insulation and protects against rain, snow, and freezing temperatures.

While they look powerful and sturdy, Sichuan takins are also excellent climbers and move with confidence across steep, rocky terrain.

Sichuan takins are generally very social animals. Female and younger takin often live in small herds, which provide them with protection and support, while males are more likely to spend time alone or in small bachelor groups, especially outside the breeding season.

Fun fact: despite their large size, Sichuan takin are excellent swimmers and will often wade through rivers and streams in their mountain habitat.

Calgary Zoo’s Imagine Asia transformation

The new takin habitat has been carefully designed to mirror their natural mountain home with rolling hills, rocky features, and even a seasonal moat that gives them space to wade and swim whenever they feel like it. It’s all about letting the animals move the way they naturally would.

In the wild, Sichuan takin are considered vulnerable and are protected under the highest level of national wildlife protection. Even with that status, they still face real threats from habitat loss due to farming, mining, and the illegal wildlife trade.

For the zoo, this addition is more than just a new animal. It is also about education and conservation, helping visitors understand the challenges these species face in their natural habitat.

The Asia Highlands exhibit is set to open in July 2026 as the first phase of the Imagine Asia redevelopment, and it is already building anticipation. From the arrival of the Sichuan Takin to the return of fan favourites like red pandas and snow leopards, the space will highlight the beauty and diversity of Asian Wildlife.

When: Monday to Friday
Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 210 St. George’s Dr. NE, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: General admission starting at $31.95

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Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

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