Calgary Zoo expands with arrival of vulnerable Sichuan takins
The arrival of four Sichuan takins marks the first phase of the zoo’s redeveloped Imagine Asia destination, focused on conservation and education.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo will welcome a new species this summer with the arrival of four Sichuan takins, marking the first phase of its redeveloped Imagine Asia destination.
Per CBC, the animals—native to the mountainous regions of central and western China—will inhabit the new Asian Highlands zone, alongside species such as red pandas and snow leopards.
Zoo officials announced the Sichuan takin, which is said to resemble a mix of a goat, an antelope, a muskox, and a moose, will be part of the new Asian Highlands section.
Kyle Burks, the president and CEO of the zoo, shared that the institution will bring in four takins from zoos across the country. These animals are expected to arrive in Calgary before the summer launch.
This announcement is part of a $8 million funding pledge from Travel Alberta to enhance tourism activities throughout the province, including the long-term development of the Imagine Asia project.
Classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the species will play a role in ongoing conservation education efforts tied to the new exhibit.

