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Serow

The serows (Capricornis) are a genus of six species of medium-sized, goat-like ungulates in the subfamily Caprinae of the family Bovidae, native to mountainous regions across Asia from Japan to the Indian subcontinent. These elusive, primarily solitary mammals are adapted to steep, rocky terrains in dense forests and shrublands, where they exhibit remarkable agility for climbing and leaping among cliffs and trees.^[1]^[2]^[3] The recognized species include the Japanese serow (C. crispus), endemic to the islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu in Japan and classified as Least Concern by the IUCN due to stable populations from conservation efforts; the Formosan serow (C. swinhoei), restricted to Taiwan and also Least Concern, benefiting from protected habitats; the Chinese serow (C. milneedwardsii), found south of the Yellow River in China and listed as Vulnerable owing to habitat fragmentation and poaching; the red serow (C. rubidus), occurring in Myanmar and parts of Southeast Asia, categorized as Vulnerable from ongoing declines due to hunting; the mainland serow (C. sumatraensis), distributed from the eastern Himalayas through Southeast Asia to Sumatra, assessed as Vulnerable primarily from deforestation and illegal trade; and the Himalayan serow (C. thar), inhabiting the Himalayan range from Pakistan to Bhutan, rated Vulnerable following a downgrade from Near Threatened due to intensified threats like habitat loss.^[4] Serows typically measure 55–85 cm at the shoulder, weigh 25–100 kg depending on the species and sex, and feature coarse, bristly pelage that ranges from dark gray or black to reddish-brown, often with a short mane along the neck and throat. Both sexes bear short, conical horns measuring 10–20 cm that curve gently backward, along with prominent suborbital scent glands used for territorial marking. As browsers, they feed mainly on leaves, twigs, fruits, and lichens, and their crepuscular habits—active mainly at dawn and dusk—enhance their cryptic nature in forested environments. All species face pressures from habitat destruction, human encroachment, and hunting for meat, horns, and medicinal uses, though the Japanese serow has seen population recovery through legal protections.^[3]^[2]^[5]^[6]

Taxonomy

Etymology

The term "serow" originates from the Lepcha language of the Himalayan region, specifically the word sä-ro or sa-ro, which refers to a long-haired Tibetan goat or a type of goat-antelope.^[7]^[8] This name was adopted into English in the 19th century by European naturalists documenting Asian ungulates.^[7] The scientific genus Capricornis for serows was established by zoologist William Ogilby in 1837, based on specimens from eastern Asia; the name derives from Latin capri- (from caper, meaning "goat") and cornis (from cornu, meaning "horn"), literally translating to "goat-horned" to reflect the animal's horned, goat-like appearance.^[9]^[10] Earlier, in 1831, Brian Houghton Hodgson described the Himalayan serow as Antilope thar, incorporating the local Himalayan name "thar" for the species now classified as Capricornis thar.^[11] The term "serow" is distinct from "goral," which applies to related but separate goat-antelopes in the genus Naemorhedus; while both were occasionally lumped together historically due to superficial similarities, serows are characterized by a more robust build and a throat mane, and the nomenclature reflects their separation within the Bovidae family.^[12] Regional names for serows vary across Asia, such as "kamoshika" (meaning "coarse pelt deer") for the Japanese serow in Japan, or "thar" and "jingal" in the Himalayan regions of India and Nepal.^[12]^[13]

Classification

Serows belong to the genus Capricornis in the family Bovidae, subfamily Caprinae, and tribe Rupicaprini, which encompasses goat-antelopes adapted to rugged terrains. The complete taxonomic hierarchy is as follows: Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Mammalia, Order Artiodactyla, Family Bovidae, Subfamily Caprinae, Tribe Rupicaprini, Genus Capricornis.^[3] This placement reflects their even-toed ungulate ancestry and specialized adaptations within the Caprinae, a group known for its mountain-dwelling members.^[14] Historically, serows were classified under the genus Naemorhedus alongside gorals until the mid-1980s, when morphological analyses distinguished them based on differences in horn morphology, skull structure, and pelage characteristics. This reclassification, proposed by Groves and Grubb, elevated Capricornis as a separate genus to better account for these traits and avoid conflation with the more agile, cliff-dwelling gorals. Subsequent genetic evidence has reinforced this separation, highlighting distinct evolutionary trajectories within the Caprinae.^[15] Phylogenetically, Capricornis forms a sister clade to Naemorhedus (gorals) within the Caprinae subfamily, supported by mitochondrial and nuclear DNA studies that indicate a divergence approximately 4.8 million years ago during the late Miocene to early Pliocene. This split likely occurred in Asian highlands, driven by environmental changes such as the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau, which promoted diversification among montane bovids.^[16] The fossil record provides insight into serow evolution, with the earliest serow-like remains appearing in late Pliocene deposits across Asia, around 3.3–2.5 million years ago. These primitive forms, characterized by robust builds and straight horns, suggest Capricornis ancestors as a basal lineage contributing to the radiation of modern Caprinae, though direct fossils of the genus are more common in Pleistocene strata.^[16]

Extant species

The genus Capricornis comprises six recognized extant species of serow, all classified within the subfamily Caprinae of the family Bovidae. These species are distinguished primarily by variations in coat color, body size, and geographic distribution, reflecting adaptations to diverse forested habitats across Asia.^[1]^[6] The Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) is endemic to Japan, inhabiting the islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It features a distinctive blackish coat with longer, coarser hair on the underparts and a robust build, weighing 25–50 kg, making it the smallest of the serows. This species is adapted to steep, forested mountains and has benefited from conservation efforts, with a population estimated at approximately 100,000 individuals.^[17]^[18] The mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) has the broadest range, extending from the eastern Himalayas through southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, and into Indonesia, including Sumatra. Characterized by a gray-brown coat that provides camouflage in rocky terrains, it weighs 40–100 kg and occupies elevations from sea level to 4,000 m. Its population has declined by over 30% in the past decade due to habitat loss and hunting, rendering it vulnerable with fragmented subpopulations likely numbering fewer than 10,000 mature individuals across its range.^[6]^[5] The red serow (Capricornis rubidus), also known as the Burmese red serow, is restricted to southern Bangladesh, northeastern India, and northern Myanmar. It stands out with its rufous or reddish-brown coat, shorter than that of other serows, and a body mass of 40–90 kg, suited to subtropical forests and grasslands up to 1,500 m. Population estimates are unavailable, but severe habitat degradation and poaching have led to a decreasing trend, with local subpopulations critically low.^[19] The Taiwan serow (Capricornis swinhoei), or Formosan serow, is endemic to Taiwan, primarily in the central mountain ranges. It possesses a dark brown coat with a paler underbelly and weighs 25–80 kg, exhibiting agility in rugged, high-altitude forests above 1,000 m. Restricted to Taiwan and classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, it benefits from protected habitats, though illegal hunting and habitat fragmentation pose ongoing threats.^[6]^[20] The Chinese serow (Capricornis milneedwardsii) is found south of the Yellow River in China. It features a dark gray or black coat and weighs 40–90 kg, adapted to forested mountains. Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN owing to habitat fragmentation and poaching.^[1] The Himalayan serow (Capricornis thar) inhabits the Himalayan range from Pakistan to Bhutan. It has a grayish to reddish-brown coat and weighs 30–80 kg, suited to steep forested slopes. Rated Vulnerable by the IUCN following a downgrade from Near Threatened due to intensified threats like habitat loss.^[1] Taxonomic debates persist regarding the status of certain taxa, though recent genetic analyses support recognition of six species; however, IUCN assessments (as of 2020) treat the Chinese and Himalayan serows as subspecies of C. sumatraensis.^[1]^[21]

Description

Physical characteristics

Serows are medium-sized bovids characterized by a stocky, goat-like build adapted to rugged, mountainous environments. Adults typically measure 80–180 cm in head-body length, stand 50–110 cm at the shoulder, and weigh 25–140 kg across species, with males slightly larger than females in some cases. Their robust frame features short, sturdy legs, a muscular neck, and a prominent beard on the throat, enabling agile climbing and sure-footed navigation on rocky terrain through specialized rough-textured, cloven hooves that provide grip.^[22]^[23]^[24] Both sexes possess short, backward-curving horns measuring 10–34 cm in length, which are ridged with transverse annulations indicating age and pointed at the tips for defense. Sensory adaptations include prominent preorbital glands located below the eyes, used for scent marking territory and individuals, as well as large eyes suited for crepuscular vision in low-light forest conditions. Their ears, typically 10–15 cm long and mule-like in shape, enhance acute hearing for detecting predators.^[23]^[24]^[25] Pelage coloration varies by species but is generally dark brown to black, often with contrasting white or pale markings on the muzzle, chin, throat, and lower legs for camouflage in shaded undergrowth. The coarse, thick fur provides insulation against harsh weather in montane habitats.^[23]^[24]^[25]

Sexual dimorphism and variation

Serows exhibit minimal sexual dimorphism across species in the genus Capricornis, with both males and females possessing horns and a characteristic throat beard. In the Japanese serow (C. crispus), adult females are slightly heavier than males, averaging 38.43 kg compared to 35.89 kg for individuals over 3.5 years old, representing about a 7% difference, while shoulder heights are similar (73.98 cm for females vs. 73.10 cm for males). Horn lengths are also comparable, typically 12–16 cm in males and 12–15 cm in females, though males may show slightly longer horns in older age classes due to continued growth. This lack of pronounced size disparity contrasts with more dimorphic bovids like some goats, where males can exceed females by over 50% in mass.^[23]^[26] Intraspecific variation in serow appearance is notable, particularly in coat color, which adapts to environmental factors. In the Japanese serow, pelage ranges from blackish to whitish gray, with black coats more common in warm temperate zones with low snowfall, white pelage in heavy snow areas, and intermediate grays in cool temperate regions; within single populations, such as on Mount Asama, individuals can display black, white, or brownish hues. Coat color lightens in summer and darkens in winter, enhancing camouflage against seasonal backdrops, while juveniles have softer, woollier fur that transitions to coarser adult pelage as they age. Regional differences are evident in the Sumatran serow (C. sumatraensis), where populations show grayer tones compared to darker mainland variants.^[27]^[23]^[28] Interspecific differences in Capricornis further highlight variation in appearance and physiology. The Japanese serow displays the most uniform dark pelage among species, often blackish with mottled white accents, while the red serow (C. rubidus) features brighter rufous-brown tones overall, with whitish undersides and a dark dorsal stripe. The Taiwan serow (C. swinhoei) has a dark brown coat accented by lighter brown on the chin, throat, and neck, aiding blending in forested montane habitats. Physiologically, horn growth rates differ by sex, with increments slowing earlier in females than males after maturation, leading to subtle length disparities in adults; body mass fluctuates seasonally with nutrition, as seen in the Japanese serow, where individuals lose significant weight (up to 15–20% in harsh winters) due to reduced forage availability, recovering in spring and summer.^[23]^[29]^[26]^[30]

Distribution and habitat

Geographic range

Serows (genus Capricornis) are distributed across south-central, southeastern, and eastern Asia, spanning from the Himalayan region at roughly 30°N latitude southward to Sumatra in Indonesia and eastward to Japan and Taiwan, with no native populations occurring outside the continent. They typically occupy altitudinal ranges from 200 m to 4,000 m above sea level, though specific elevations vary by species and location.^[5] Among the extant species, the mainland serow (C. sumatraensis) possesses the widest distribution, occurring across eleven countries from the eastern Himalayas through northeastern India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and southern China to the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra. The Japanese serow (C. crispus) is endemic to Japan, inhabiting the main islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, particularly in northern and central Honshu and eastern Shikoku. The red serow (C. rubidus) is more restricted, found in northeastern India, southeastern Bangladesh, and northern Myanmar.^[31] The Taiwan serow (C. swinhoei) is confined to the central and eastern mountain ranges of Taiwan.^[32] The Chinese serow (C. milneedwardsii) is distributed in central and southern China, Myanmar, northern Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and northern Vietnam.^[2] The Himalayan serow (C. thar) occurs across the Himalayan range from Pakistan and northern India through Nepal and Bhutan to southern Tibet in China.^[33] Historically, serow ranges were more extensive, but human activities such as hunting and habitat loss have led to significant contractions across species. For instance, the Japanese serow was nearly extirpated from much of its range by intensive hunting until protective measures were enacted in 1955, resulting in population recovery in protected areas. Similarly, the red serow's distribution has been gradually reduced due to habitat degradation and poaching, with its current range much smaller than in the early 20th century.^[6] The mainland serow has experienced declines exceeding 30% in occupied area over recent generations from similar pressures.^[34]

Habitat preferences

Serows inhabit steep, rocky forested hillsides, cliffs, and bamboo thickets across their range, typically at elevations between 500 and 3,500 m, while avoiding open plains and lowland areas.^[5]^[2] These environments provide the rugged terrain and dense vegetation essential for their elusive lifestyle, with species like the Sumatran serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) favoring montane rainforests and the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) utilizing temperate deciduous and coniferous forests on mountainous slopes.^[35] Within these habitats, serows select microhabitats featuring dense understory for concealment from predators and proximity to water sources for hydration, often navigating inclines up to 60° thanks to their specialized hoof structure—characterized by soft, rubbery soles and split tips that enhance grip on slippery rocks and steep terrain.^[36]^[37] This adaptation allows them to exploit vertical escapes and foraging niches unavailable to less agile herbivores, as observed in studies of Japanese and Formosan serows (Capricornis swinhoei).^[38]^[39] Habitat fragmentation poses significant challenges, with serows exhibiting a strong preference for large contiguous forest patches exceeding 1,000 ha to maintain viable populations and movement corridors, while largely avoiding heavily logged or degraded areas that increase exposure to threats.^[40]^[41] In fragmented landscapes, such as those in Sumatra's Leuser ecosystem, suitable habitat is reduced, limiting dispersal and genetic exchange among subpopulations.^[42] Serows demonstrate seasonal elevational shifts, ascending to higher altitudes in summer to access cooler temperatures and escape insects, and descending to lower elevations in winter to reach more accessible forage amid snow cover.^[43]^[44] These movements, documented in Himalayan and Japanese serow populations, reflect adaptations to varying climatic and resource availability across their Asian ranges.^[45]

Behavior and ecology

Serows exhibit a predominantly solitary social structure, typically living alone or forming monogamous pairs with mates during the breeding season, while small family groups consisting of a mother and her offspring may persist for up to a few years post-birth. These groups rarely exceed three to four individuals and lack the large herd formations characteristic of related cervid species. Intrasexual intolerance limits group cohesion among adults of the same sex, fostering a dispersed population dynamic.^[43]^[46] Territoriality is a core aspect of serow social organization, with adults maintaining exclusive intrasexual ranges that show minimal overlap between same-sex individuals but may intersect with those of the opposite sex. Male territories average 16.6 hectares (range: 10.5–22.8 ha), significantly larger than female territories at 10.5 hectares (range: 7–14.1 ha), influenced by resource availability and population density. Territories are demarcated through scent marking, primarily via preorbital gland secretions (comprising 70–90% of events), supplemented by dung piles, forehead/nape rubs, and horn scraping in some species; these behaviors occur frequently, with up to 1,900 marking instances recorded in observational studies. Defense relies on agonistic interactions, including 18 distinct patterns such as direct charges and displacements, which are more prevalent than indirect displays like threats.^[47]^[46]^[43] Activity patterns in serows are generally diurnal with pronounced crepuscular peaks around dawn (06:00–08:00) and dusk (16:00–22:00), reflecting adaptations to foraging and predator avoidance in forested habitats. Bimodal rhythms are common, with additional late-night activity in some populations, leading to 8–12 hours of daily activity interspersed with midday resting in dense cover for rumination and concealment. In human-disturbed areas, serows may shift toward nocturnal behavior to minimize encounters, as observed in sympatric ungulate studies. Patterns may vary by species and latitude, with tropical serows (e.g., Sumatran) showing less seasonality.^[36]^[48]^[49] Social interactions among serows are limited and rarely aggressive across sexes, with conflicts primarily intrasexual or directed by adult males toward subadult male offspring to promote natal dispersal. Juveniles typically disperse at 2–4 years of age, establishing independent territories to avoid inbreeding and resource competition, thereby maintaining low population densities.^[50]^[3]

Diet and foraging

Serows are primarily browsers, with diets dominated by leaves, twigs, shrubs, and herbaceous vegetation, though they exhibit opportunistic feeding habits that include grasses, fruits, bark, and occasionally lichens or fungi. In the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus), browse constitutes about 65% of the diet, with green leaves alone accounting for over 55%, while grasses and forbs make up the remainder in varying proportions depending on availability.^[51] Similarly, the Himalayan serow (C. thar) relies heavily on broad-leaved species, which comprise roughly 66% of its winter intake (33% deciduous and 32% evergreen), supplemented by 12% graminoids, 12% evergreen conifers, and smaller amounts of other items like fruits or bark.^[52] Across species, this composition reflects a balance of 60-70% woody browse and 20-30% herbaceous material, allowing adaptation to forested and montane environments, though tropical species like the Sumatran serow (C. sumatraensis) incorporate more fruits year-round.^[53] Foraging strategies emphasize selectivity for nutrient-rich, digestible plants, with serows consuming parts from 30 or more species per population, prioritizing those high in crude protein and low in fiber.^[53] Daily intake is approximately 2-3 kg of forage for adults.^[54] Their agility as climbers allows access to elevated foliage on shrubs and trees, often using rocky outcrops or steep slopes to browse beyond reach of competitors like deer. Seasonal variations influence composition: in winter, Japanese serows shift toward evergreen shrubs and conifers (up to 20-30% of diet), such as Cephalotaxus harringtonia and Aucuba japonica, when deciduous leaves are scarce.^[55] In contrast, summer and spring diets favor fresh broadleaves and forbs in open areas, with higher graminoid intake (up to 20-30%) where meadows adjoin forests; mineral licking at natural salt sources supplements sodium and other micronutrients year-round, particularly during growth periods.^[56] As members of the Bovidae family, serows possess a four-chambered ruminant stomach—comprising rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum—that supports microbial fermentation of cellulose-rich forage.^[57] This adaptation enables efficient extraction of nutrients from fibrous browse, with the rumen acting as a fermentation vat where bacteria break down plant cell walls, producing volatile fatty acids for energy; the omasum absorbs water and volatiles, aiding digestion in variable forage quality. Morphological features, such as a sac-like rumen with minimal pillars, suit their selective, high-fiber diet compared to grazing ruminants.

Reproduction and life cycle

Serows exhibit a mating system that is primarily monogamous, with pairs forming during the breeding season, though some males in certain populations engage in polygyny by mating with multiple females. Breeding is seasonal, typically occurring from September to November in temperate regions such as Japan and the Himalayas, while in more tropical areas like Sumatra, it aligns with October to November; males defend territories and compete intrasexually through displays involving their backward-curving horns, including butting and ritualized clashes to establish dominance.^[3]^[58]^[46]^[59] Gestation lasts approximately 7 months (210–220 days) across species, resulting in the birth of a single offspring, though twins are rarely recorded. Births occur in spring to early summer, from March to July depending on the region and species—for instance, May to June for Himalayan serows and June to August for Japanese serows—with neonates weighing 3–3.5 kg and exhibiting precocial traits, able to stand and follow their mother within hours of birth.^[60]^[12]^[61]^[62] In the life cycle, serows reach sexual maturity at 2.5–3 years of age, with females maturing slightly earlier than males in some populations. Weaning occurs at 5–6 months, after which juveniles remain dependent on the mother for foraging guidance. Lifespan in the wild is up to 10–15 years, influenced by predation and habitat factors, while individuals in captivity can live up to 20–22 years.^[29]^[63]^[3]^[60] Parental care is provided solely by the female, who remains solitary with her offspring for about one year, protecting and nursing the young while tolerating no male involvement after conception; juveniles may stay within the mother's territory for up to 2–4 years before dispersing.^[3]^[64]

Conservation

IUCN status

The serow genus Capricornis encompasses several species, most of which are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to their small, fragmented ranges and inferred population declines driven by habitat loss and exploitation. The Japanese serow (C. crispus) stands out as Least Concern (2015), reflecting a remarkable recovery, while the red serow (C. rubidus) and others like the mainland serow (C. sumatraensis) and Chinese serow (C. milneedwardsii) are assessed as Vulnerable (2020), with the Himalayan serow (C. thar) recently downgraded from Near Threatened to Vulnerable (2021) in assessments highlighting accelerating threats. The Taiwan serow (C. swinhoei) is listed as Least Concern (2008) but faces localized pressures that could warrant reevaluation. These statuses are determined primarily under IUCN criteria A2cd (suspected decline of ≥30% over three generations due to habitat degradation and hunting) and B1ab(iii) (small extent of occurrence with continuing fragmentation). Population trends across the genus indicate overall declines of 20-30% over approximately three generations (spanning the 1990s to 2020s), though data gaps persist for many species owing to their elusive nature. For instance, the red serow has a small and fragmented population with severe fragmentation in its limited range across Myanmar, India, and Bangladesh contributing to its precarious status. In contrast, the Japanese serow's population has surged from around 2,000 individuals in the 1920s—when it teetered on the brink of extinction due to overhunting—to over 100,000 today, bolstered by strict legal protections since 1955, including designation as a Special Natural Monument. The total global population for the genus is roughly estimated at 50,000-100,000 individuals, predominantly comprising the Japanese serow, with other species numbering in the low thousands or less in isolated subpopulations. Monitoring efforts for serow populations rely on non-invasive techniques such as camera traps and genetic surveys, particularly in critical regions like the Himalayas, where these methods help track density, distribution, and genetic diversity amid fragmented habitats. For example, camera trapping in protected areas of India and Nepal has revealed sporadic but declining detections of Himalayan serows, informing status updates and conservation priorities. These approaches underscore the fragmented nature of remaining populations, with ongoing declines projected unless habitat connectivity improves.^[65]^[66]

Threats and protection

Serows face significant threats from habitat loss primarily driven by deforestation and agricultural expansion, which have resulted in substantial range reductions across their distribution, such as at least 50% habitat degradation for the red serow in Bangladesh over the past decade.^[19] Poaching remains a major risk, with serows targeted for their meat, horns used in traditional medicines, and body parts in illegal trade, particularly in Southeast Asia where organized networks facilitate cross-border trafficking.^[67] Human-wildlife conflict exacerbates these pressures, as serows occasionally raid crops near forest edges, leading to retaliatory killings by local communities.^[43] Secondary threats include climate change, which alters forage availability and suitable habitats by shifting vegetation patterns and increasing extreme weather events in montane regions.^[43] Disease transmission from domestic livestock poses another risk, particularly in areas where pastoralism overlaps with serow ranges, potentially introducing pathogens like those causing respiratory or parasitic infections.^[68] Additionally, roadkill in fragmented landscapes contributes to mortality, especially for populations near expanding infrastructure in Asia.^[69] Most serow species, excluding the Japanese serow, are listed under CITES Appendix I, prohibiting international commercial trade in wild specimens to curb poaching and trafficking. Protection within national parks and reserves has been effective in some regions; for instance, the Japanese serow was designated a Special Natural Monument in 1955, leading to a population rebound from near-extinction levels to stable numbers exceeding 100,000 individuals. Anti-poaching patrols in protected areas of India and Myanmar have reduced illegal hunting incidents, supported by collaborative efforts between government agencies and NGOs to monitor and enforce wildlife laws.^[70] Conservation successes include captive breeding programs, such as the one at Taipei Zoo for the Taiwan serow, which has produced multiple offspring annually since 2003 to bolster genetic diversity and support reintroduction efforts.^[71] Community-based initiatives in the Himalayas, like WWF-India's project in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, engage local stakeholders in habitat monitoring and sustainable resource use to mitigate conflicts and protect serow populations. However, challenges persist in Southeast Asia, where enforcement gaps allow ongoing illegal trade and habitat conversion despite legal protections, highlighting the need for stronger regional cooperation.^[72] These efforts have helped stabilize some populations amid ongoing declines in others.

References

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Oct 9, 2024 · The Capricornis genus is comprised of six species: Chinese serow (C. milneedwardsii), Sumatran serow (C. sumatraensis), Formosan serow (C.
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Japanese serows are solitary animals and form intrasexual territories. They mark their territories with the scent gland located in front of the eyes.
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Geographic Range. Sumatran serows, Capricornis sumatraensis , are found on the Thai-Malay Peninsula and on the Indonesian island of Sumatra.
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The meaning of SEROW is any of several goatlike artiodactyl mammals ( ... Word History. Etymology. Lepcha să-ro long-haired Tibetan goat. First Known ...Missing: animal | Show results with:animal
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Word origin. C19: from Lepcha sǎ-ro Tibetan goat. Word lists with. serow. cattle ... Which cattle or other hooved animal am I? a tawny-coloured cud-chewing ...Missing: etymology | Show results with:etymology
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noun Cap· ri· cor· nis : the genus (family Bovidae) consisting of the serow. Word History Etymology New Latin, from capri- + -cornis (irregular from cornu horn ...
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Densely wooded hillsides and conifer forests in Japan. The Japanese serow is considered a low risk, conservation dependent species by the IUCN (1996). One of ...
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Nov 9, 2023 · The population has declined rapidly due to hunting for meat and habitat loss; at least 50% of its habitat has been severely degraded over the last decade.<|control11|><|separator|>
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### Summary of Himalayan Serow (Capricornis thar) Morphology
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[28]
Winter Weight Loss in Japanese Serow - jstor
It is well documented that body weights of northern ungulates are heaviest in fall, decline over winter, and are lightest in early spring.
[29]
Capricornis rubidus • Red Serow - ASM Mammal Diversity Database
IUCN Red List status. Vulnerable. Species Permalink. https://www.mammaldiversity.org/taxon/1006191. Country distribution map. The map below provides a general ...
[30]
Capricornis swinhoei • Formosan Serow
Gray, J.E. 1862-10-01. Notice of a new "wild goat" (Capricornus Swinhoei) from the island of Formosa. Annals and Magazine of Natural History ...
[31]
Mainland Serow Capricornis sumatraensis - Palm Oil Detectives
Jan 24, 2021 · The Mainland serow is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, with population numbers steadily declining due to palm oil deforestation and poaching.
[32]
Linking climate vulnerability and future distribution for the threatened ...
Sep 10, 2025 · The Sumatran serow (Capricornis sumatraensis sumatraensis), a threatened subspecies endemic to Sumatra, is increasingly impacted by ...
[33]
Habitat Selection and Activity Patterns of Japanese Serows and Sika ...
The purpose of this study was to compare the habitat selection and activity patterns of sympatric Japanese serows and sika deer, using camera traps in an area ...
[34]
https://palmoildetectives.com/2021/01/24/mainland-serow-capricornis-sumatraensis/
[35]
Tree-Climbing Behavior of a Forest-Dwelling Ungulate - MDPI
Jul 24, 2024 · This is the first scientific report on tree-climbing behavior in the Formosan serow, which is typically a forest-dwelling ungulate. The Formosan ...
[36]
Tree-Climbing Behavior of a Forest-Dwelling Ungulate
Jul 24, 2024 · This species has thick and short legs and soft hooves adapted to broken terrains and prefers habitats with steep slopes and rocky cliffs [20,21] ...
[37]
[PDF] Habitat suitability and distribution of Sumatran serow (Capricornis ...
The existence of this species is highly dependent on the integrity of its specific habitat, namely mountain forests with steep topography and rough terrain as ...
[38]
[PDF] Conservation Status and Population Density of Himalayan Serow ...
Habitat fragmentation in Serow's forest is another threat to population decline. Fecal dropping behavior of Serow is found unique, it dropped pellets/fecal in ...
[39]
(PDF) Habitat suitability and distribution of Sumatran serow ...
Sep 13, 2025 · Mount Leuser National Park (MLNP), Indonesia, is habitat to the Sumatran serow (Capricornis sumatraensis sumatraensis), an endangered ungulate ...
[40]
Himalayan Serow: A Keystone Species in Crisis – Challenges and ...
... recognized six species in the genus Capricornis : Himalayan serow ( Capricornis thar ), Chinese serow ( Capricornis milneedwardsii ) with the subspecies ...<|separator|>
[41]
Trends in Habitat Use between Sympatric Sika Deer and Japanese ...
Apr 20, 2022 · In contrast, Japanese serows used the east side of the valley in summer and autumn, and lower elevation areas in all seasons, except winter. ( ...
[42]
Ecological drivers of population abundance of the Japanese serow ...
May 28, 2025 · The population abundance of serows was higher in coniferous forests than in broad-leaved forests, and in areas with a low supply of deciduous ...
[43]
On the Behavioural Biology of the Mainland Serow - PubMed Central
Sep 16, 2020 · Serows Capricornis spp. are solitary, elusive, forest-dwelling goat-antelopes, allegedly the closest ancestral forms to wild sheep and goats ...
[44]
Effects of Territoriality on Population Density in the Japanese Serow ...
We suggest that food availability controls adult density in the Japanese serow by influencing territory size.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
[45]
Activity Rhythms of Coexisting Red Serow and Chinese ... - MDPI
Red serow and Chinese serow are exploitative competitors but coexist by altering their daily activity rhythms when in contact and changing activity patterns ...
[46]
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7552253/
[47]
Causes of natal dispersal in a monogamous ungulate, the Japanese ...
We examined two hypotheses to explain the natal dispersal of Japanese serows: competition for mates and/or resources and inbreeding avoidance.
[48]
Local variation in diet composition of the Japanese serow during ...
The composition of the diet, characterized by a high proportion of browse (65.2%), including green plant leaves (55.3%), confirmed that the Japanese serow is a ...Missing: Miura | Show results with:Miura<|separator|>
[49]
Winter diet composition of Himalayan serow Capricornis ...
The majority of the diet comprised deciduous broad-leaved species (33.78%), followed by evergreen broad-leaved species (32.14.), graminoids (12.23%), evergreen ...
[50]
Diet Selection of a Solitary Forest-Dwelling Ungulate, the Japanese ...
To determine the diet selection of a forest-dwelling ungulate, the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus), we investigated its diet composition in relation to ...
[51]
Formosan serow (Capricornis swinhoei) - Detailed information
Aug 19, 2024 · The most recent taxonomic revision (Wilson and Reeder, 2005) has restituted Capricornis to a full genus in its own right. The Formosan serow is ...
[52]
Food Habits of Japanese Serow (Capricornis crispus) in the Western ...
Their winter diet was character- ized by the predominance of evergreen shrubs such as Cephalotaxus harringtonia var. nana and Aucuba japonica var. borealis, ...
[53]
Ecological significance and risks of mineral licks to mammals in a ...
Salt licking has been observed in many mammalian species. ... Despite being a typically solitary species, individuals of Chinese Serow share the mineral licks.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
[54]
Morphological study of the Forestomach of the Japanese Serow ...
Jun 28, 2007 · The rumen was sac-like in shape, and the right accessory longitudinal groove was not visible externally. The reticulum was relatively small, ...
[55]
Territoriality and monogamous pairs in a solitary ungulate, the ...
This is why the serow formed predominantly monogamous pairs, although the ... Sexual size dimorphism in domestic goats, sheep, and their wild relatives.
[56]
Sumatran Serow - Facts, Diet, Habitat & Pictures on Animalia.bio
In general, Mainland serows breed in October and November. Females give birth to a single young after a gestation period that lasts for about 7-8 months.
[57]
AnAge entry for Capricornis crispus
Male sexual maturity: 1,095 days ; Gestation: 215 days ; Litter size: 1 (viviparous) ; Litters per year: 1 ; Inter-litter interval: 548 days ...Missing: cycle | Show results with:cycle
[58]
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003347296902122
[59]
Japanese Serow (Capricornis crispus) - Ralfs' Wildlife and Wild Places
Apr 11, 2017 · The Japanese Serow is endemic to Japan. It inhabits mountainous areas (1) on Honshu (extinct in West Honshu) (5), Shikoku, and Kyushu Island.
[60]
Characteristics of Female Reproductive Success in a High-Density ...
Apr 30, 2024 · Both male and female serows become sexually mature at about 2.5–3 years of age (Sugimura et al. 1981; Tiba et al. 1988). The mean (± SE) annual ...
[61]
The Japanese Serow: Japan's Emblematic Forest-Dwelling Goat ...
Dec 2, 2024 · The Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) is an even-toed ungulate mammal endemic to Japan. This stocky goat-antelope lives in dense woodland ...
[62]
(PDF) Record of Himalayan Serow in Manas TR - ResearchGate
Aug 6, 2025 · The Himalayan Serow Capricornis sumatraensis ssp. thar is predominantly found in middle regions of the Himalaya. During the Phase IV camera ...
[63]
Distribution pattern of the threatened Himalayan serow (Capricornis ...
It is listed as a near threatened (NT) species in the IUCN's red list (IUCN 2010) and included in Appendix 1 of CITES (UNEP-WCMC 2011). In Nepal, Himalayan ...
[64]
The highs and lows of serow (Capricornis sumatraensis): multi-scale ...
Jul 14, 2023 · The mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) is a large rainforest goat threatened by habitat loss, hunting for bushmeat, and poaching for ...
[65]
Climate change as a wildlife health threat: a scoping review
Feb 8, 2025 · We performed a scoping review to identify scholarly articles from 2008 onwards with a focus on climate change impacts on wildlife health.Missing: serow roadkill
[66]
Spatio-temporal patterns of mortality in Japanese serow
Dec 5, 2020 · The utility of mortality records for conservation measures was investigated in the Japanese serow, focusing on temporal trends and spatial distribution.
[67]
[PDF] RECENT OBSERVATIONS OF THE ILLEGAL TRADE IN SEROWS ...
The distribution of Chinese Serow. Capricornis milneedwardsii. Source: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. (http://maps.iucnredlist.org/map.html?id=3814).
[68]
Weibao is one month old, bringing new hope to the ex ... - Taipei Zoo
Jun 25, 2024 · The baby serow, Weibao, hops around and follows its mother, or snuggles up next to her to nap. Weibao even imitates her mother by eating leaves, ...
[69]
Wildlife busts in Malaysia's Taman Negara show progress, and gaps ...
Sep 9, 2024 · WCS Malaysia attributes one of the difficulties in fully eradicating poaching to the vast size of the Taman Negara Forest Complex, which is ...