This is the largest goat on Earth, and its size will shock you

The Markhor is a wild goat found in the mountains of Central Asia. Renowned for its uniquely coiled horns and immensely powerful and muscular body, it is built to live through some of the most challenging environments in the whole world. Unfortunately, regardless of its incredible strength, the Markhor encounters severe threats and requires immediate protection to avoid getting extinct and disappearing forever.

What makes the Markhor special?
The Markhor is known to be the largest wild goat species in the world, with males weighing approximately 110 kg, which is around 240 lbs, and growing as high as 6 feet. One of their most notable features is their long, and twisted horns, growing over 1.5 meters long. These horns are used by males in one-on-one fights to win the rights of mating. During the season of breeding, they lock horns and powerfully push each other until one male gives up and accepts defeat.


Where the Markhor are found
The Markhor is known to commonly live in high and rocky mountains all across countries like India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. They grow in forests at heights of 2,000 to 11,800 feet. These regions are immensely harsh and cold, but the Markhor is perfectly adapted to the environment with the help of uniquely resilient feet for climbing and dense and thick fur to stay warm, even in extreme cold.

What does the Markhor feed on?

Markhors are known to eat plants like grass, shrubs, and leaves. They're remarkable at climbing and can stand on their back legs to reach food high in trees. Females and young goats live in small groups, while males usually stay alone except when it's time to mate.

The severe threats Markhors are facing
Markhors have faced significant threats due to hunting for their valuable horns and meat. This caused their numbers to fall drastically over time. Fortunately, conservation efforts have helped them slowly recover, but they are still in danger. The main threats now are persistent illegal hunting and the loss of the forests and mountains that are their natural habitats.


Why is the Markhor species important?
In Pakistan, the Markhor is valued as a symbol of strength and pride. It’s believed to be part of many local stories, with some saying it can kill snakes with its horns. Although these are just myths, the real strength of the Markhor comes from its ability to survive in the tough, rocky mountains. Despite the harsh conditions, it continues to live, showing true resilience.