Birth is usually given in March or April to a single offspring, which is referred to as a kid. Within three days of their birth, a kid is able to follow its mother throughout most types of terrain, which is critical when attempting to evade predators or traveling long distances to food sources. Life Cycle Takins appear to seasonally migrate to preferred habitats. During spring and early summer months, they begin to gather in large herds of up to 100 animals at the uppermost limits of treeline. During cooler autumn months, when food is less plentiful at higher elevations, herds disband into smaller groups of up to 35 individuals, and move to forested valleys at lower elevations.
Groups mainly comprise females, subadults, kids and some adult males.
Although takins are mostly slow moving animals, when angered or frightened they can move quickly over short distances. If required, they possess the ability to leap from rock to rock on steep slopes as a means of escape. If danger approaches, a takin will emit a loud warning cough, alerting other takins in the herd. During the rutting season, males are often heard producing a low bellow as a warning or challenge to other competing males. Although takins have no skin glands, their entire body secretes an oily, strong smelling substance that is said to have a burning taste.