Pantholops

Pantholops is a genus of even-toed ungulates in the family Bovidae that contains a single living species, Pantholops hodgsonii, commonly known as the Tibetan antelope or chiru. This species is native to the high-altitude grasslands and deserts of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in China and adjacent regions. The genus is distinguished by females typically having little to no horns, while males possess long, slender horns and display the distinctive facial and coat patterns of the species.

Physically, Tibetan antelopes are medium-sized with a pale fawn to sandy coat and a white rump patch that becomes more evident in winter. They are adapted to high elevations, with a thick undercoat and a light outer coat to withstand cold, dry conditions. Males carry horns that can be long and curved, used in displays and combat during the breeding season; females generally have shorter horns or none at all.

Ecology and behavior include grazing on grasses and forbs across alpine meadows and open steppes. They often form large herds, especially outside the breeding season, and undertake seasonal movements in search of forage and water. Breeding is typically seasonal, with males competing for access to females in a lek-like or harem-based system.

Conservation status and threats: the Tibetan antelope is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It has suffered from severe poaching in the 20th century for shahtoosh, the undercoat used in luxury shawls, as well as habitat disturbance and climate change. Protection measures, habitat conservation, and anti-poaching efforts have aided recovery in parts of its range, but the species remains at risk and is the focus of ongoing conservation programs.