The Takin (Budorcas taxicolor) is Bhutan’s national animal and one of the most distinctive creatures in the Himalayan region. With the body of a cow and the head of a goat, the Takin’s unique appearance is deeply rooted in Bhutanese folklore. Legend has it that the Divine Madman, Lama Drukpa Kunley, miraculously created the Takin after being challenged to perform a supernatural feat—he combined the bones of a goat and a cow, and the animal came to life. Found in the temperate forests and alpine meadows of Bhutan’s highlands, the Takin is a symbol of strength, mystery, and spiritual heritage. Its resilience to cold climates and its unique origin make it not only a national symbol but also a living embodiment of Bhutan’s connection to myth and nature.