Asian Geographic

Saola

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The saola ( Pseudoryx nghetinhen­sis) might look like an antelope, but they are actually closely related to cows and buffalos. These animals are known as “Asian unicorns” due to their horns, and their rarity. They dwell in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam and Laos, and stay close to rivers and valleys. The saola is now critically endangered due to climatic shifts, concurrent habitat loss, hunting, and the use of its fur and meat, and it is not known how many are remaining. With an estimated maximum of 15 subpopulat­ions, and no more than 50 animals in each, the total global population is around 750, but likely far fewer.

 ?? PHOTO: DAVID HULSE / WWF ??
PHOTO: DAVID HULSE / WWF

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