Location: Dagestan, Russia
Habitat: Mountain
Diet: Herbivore
Characteristic: Horns can be up to 3.3 feet for defense
Conservation: Vulnerable
The Daghestani Tur, also known as the Eastern Tur, belongs to the Bovidae family, and it is a subspecies of the wild goat. These mountain goats have a robust build with a shoulder height of around 3 to 3.6 feet and a weight ranging from 132 to 220 pounds. Their coat is thick and composed of long, shaggy fur, which helps them stay warm in the cold mountain climates.
One of the most remarkable features of the Daghestani Tur is its horns. Both males (bucks) and females (does) have horns, but the males' horns are usually larger and more impressive. These horns are curved backward and can reach lengths of up to 3.3 feet. They are used for defense against predators and in competitions with other males for mating rights.
The Daghestani Tur is native to the rugged mountainous regions of the Caucasus, particularly Dagestan (Daghestan is the old spelling of Dagestan), a republic in the southern part of Russia. They are well-adapted to life in steep, rocky terrain at high elevations, often found between 6,500 to 13,000 feet above sea level. These Turs are agile and skilled climbers, allowing them to navigate the rocky cliffs and slopes of their mountainous habitat. Their hooves are equipped with a rubbery pad, providing excellent grip on rocky surfaces. Additionally, their keen eyesight helps them detect predators from afar.
These mammals are social animals and often form herds consisting of females, young ones, and sometimes young males. Older males may be solitary or form smaller bachelor groups. Communication within the herd is essential for social bonding and safety, and they use various vocalizations and body postures to convey messages.
As herbivores, Daghestani Turs primarily feed on various types of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, herbs, and shrubs. Their digestive system is specialized in extracting nutrients from tough and fibrous plant material.
The Daghestani Tur is classified as "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Their population is declining due to habitat loss, human disturbance, and poaching. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival.