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Image of Markhor
Markhor

The markhor, or Capra falconeri, dazzles with its majestic spiral horns and rugged, shaggy coat. An expert climber of Central Asia's mountains, this near-threatened goat plays a vital role in its ecosystem, grazing on shrubs and helping to shape the alpine landscape.

10-13 years
Lifespan
32.0 - 110.0 kg
Weight
Length: 1.32 - 1.86 m
Size
Brown, Grey, Black, White, Tan
Color
10 mph
Top Speed
Near Threatened
Conservation Status
Increasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
The Capra falconeri, known as the markhor, is a large wild goat native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia. It is distinguished by its impressive spiral horns, which can grow up to 1.6 meters long in males. The markhor has a long, shaggy coat that varies in color from light to dark brown, aiding its camouflage in rugged terrain. It is a herbivore, primarily grazing on grasses and shrubs, and is known for its agile climbing abilities. Unfortunately, the markhor is listed as near threatened due to habitat loss and hunting.
Distribution Range of the Markhor
Capra falconeri, commonly known as the Markhor, is native to Central Asia, particularly found in the mountainous regions of northeastern Afghanistan, northern and central Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir (India), southern Tajikistan, and southern Uzbekistan.
Markhor's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Markhor inhabits rugged, mountainous terrains at elevations ranging from 600 to 3,600 meters. The species prefers steep, rocky areas with sparse vegetation, which provide both cover and grazing opportunities. These regions experience a temperate climate with cold winters and mild to warm summers.
Ecological Niche
As herbivores, Markhors primarily graze on grasses, leaves, and shrubs. Their habitat is characterized by harsh, arid conditions with limited food availability, which has led them to develop specialized adaptations for efficient foraging and climbing. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by influencing the vegetation structure and serving as prey for large predators such as snow leopards.