SEATTLE - Woodland Park Zoo this morning euthanized its only takin (TAW-kin), a large goat antelope. The 11-year-old male suffered from chronic gastrointestinal problems and arthritis. Despite long-term medication and dietary changes, his weight dropped progressively and his health deteriorated drastically. "His prognosis for recovery was very poor," explains zoo Senior Veterinarian Janis Joslin. Takins can live to nearly 16 years old in zoos.

Of the three subspecies of takins, this male belonged to the Sichuan subspecies, which is found in the mountain ranges of southern Gansu and Sichuan provinces of China. The zoo's takin arrived in 1997 from Cincinnati Zoo but was owned by San Diego Zoo.

The breeding program for takins in zoos was established only a few years ago; Woodland Park was hoping to find an appropriate mate for breeding with this male. However, takins are rare in zoos; only 21 takins live in North American zoos. "We would like to acquire a pair of takins and continue exhibiting this rare species," says zoo Director Mike Waller. "We1re interested in participating with other American Zoo and Aquarium Association institutions in a breeding program of this species."

Takins appear much like an ox, with dense and shaggy coats that vary from whitish-yellow, darker brown or gold. "He was such an impressive-looking creature by virtue of his size and coat," notes zoo Mammal Curator Lee Werle. "He was held dearly by many zoo staff and volunteers and will be sorely missed."

Although takins are not currently endangered, increased human activities in their natural range are having a negative effect on their populations, particularly poaching by local native peoples. Less than 5,000 Sichuan takins remain in the wild.