Endangered Wild Yak:Distribution,Population,\nImpacting Factors and Conservation

Abstract

Wild yak(Bos grunniens)is valuable resource species classified as globally vulnerable by IUCN.It is endemic to the Tibetan Plateau and surrounding areas.Wild yak mainly occupies China and Indian-controlled Kashmir.The global population of wild yak is estimated at 24000-30000, while the population in the core distribution area(Qinghai,Tibet,Xinjiang and other areas in China)is probably around 22000.There are two ecological types of wild yak in China,the Qilian Mountain Type and the Kunlun Mountain Type.Both are well-adapted to the alpine life with their special appearances,physiology,biochemistry and other adaptations.Wild yak habitat is alpine meadow where species of Poaceae and Cyperaceae are its main food plants.Excessive utilization,habitat deterioration,human-wildlife confliction and resource competition with domestic yaks are the major threats to wild yaks.To conserve the endangered wild yaks and protect their habitats,on the basis of current protecting measures,actions,such as strengthening nature reserve construction,optimizing protection policy,reconciling the contradictions between economic development and wild yak conservation,and building up genetic resource center of wild yaks,databases of population dynamic and habitat,should be undertaken.