American takin (SciiFii)

The American takin (Budorcas americanum) is a species of takin that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the North American grasslands, shrublands, alpine areas, forests, mountains, and hilly plains to help boost biodiversity. The American takin is very similar in appearance to the golden takin (Budorcas taxicolor bedfordi) in size, appearance, and behavior. The American takin is a herbivore like its Asian relatives, feeding on many kinds of alpine and deciduous plants and evergreens. When it comes to food, American takins munch on almost any vegetation within reach. This includes the tough leaves of evergreen rhododendrons and oaks, willow and pine bark, bamboo leaves, and a variety of new-growth leaves and herbs. The size of American takin herds changes with the seasons: during spring and early summer, herds can number up to 300 animals; during cooler months, when food is less plentiful, the large herds break up into smaller groups of 10 to 35 American takins as they head up the mountain. Herds are made up of adult females (called cows), kids (young takin), subadults, and young males. Older males, called bulls, are generally solitary except during the rut, or mating season, in late summer. Normally solitary, bull takins meet up with herds for a short time during the rut. They bellow loudly to attract cows and notify other bulls of their presence. They may find takin cows by tracking their scent. Once they meet, a bull sniffs and licks the female to determine if she is receptive. Takin cows seek out areas of dense vegetation to give birth to a single kid in early spring (twins are rare). Within three days of its birth, a takin kid is able to follow its mother through most types of terrain. This is very important if bears or wolves are nearby or if the herd needs to travel a long distance for food. If young American takins are separated from their mother, it lets out a noise to alarm the mother, and the mother answers with a low, guttural call that allows for them to reunite. The American takin kid eats solid food and stops nursing at around two months old, although it may continue to stay near its mother until after her next calf is born. Horns begin to grow when the American takin kid is about six months old. At birth, American takin kids are much darker than adults to give them camouflage from predators; they even have a dark stripe along the back that disappears as the youngsters gets older. Their coat gets lighter in color, longer, and shaggier as they get older. The conservation status of the American takin is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts and the American takin's wide range.