The golden takin is a goat-antelope found in the Qinling Mountains of China. It stands about 1 to 1.4 meters tall at the shoulder (roughly 3 to 4.5 feet) and weighs between 300 and 350 kilograms (about 650 to 770 pounds). Although sometimes called an antelope, it is more closely related to goats and sheep.

Golden takins are known for their thick coats, with adult males developing longer manes around the neck. These outer layers repel rain and snow, while dense underwool beneath traps body heat. Broad snouts and deep nasal passages warm the air as they breathe. Together, these features help them stay comfortable while climbing steep, wet slopes in freezing conditions.