On your next visit to the Zoo’s Animals of Asia area, be sure to say hi to Louise the yak!

Louise is one year old and came to us from Riverview Park and Zoo in Peterborough, Ontario. She has been carefully introduced to our current herd of four adult females – Mooshu, Moolan, Yak Cousteau, and Terriyaki, and is adjusting very well to her new surroundings. She was initially nervous but once she built up the courage to step out, she became curious and sociable.

Ever wonder how our animal care professionals integrate a new animal like a yak into a herd successfully? Here’s how the process went with Louise:

She was first introduced through nose-to-nose contact through our fencing to initially smell each other out. Then, she got solo access to the enclosure so she could familiarize herself with the area. After that, she was introduced to her first mate Moolan, chosen specifically by the animal care team due to her calmer and more patient demeanor. The two of them bonded quickly, which made it easier for Louise to connect with the rest of the girls. One-by-one introductions happened shortly after that. Then, after a few more days, the final yak arrived and they all began to co-exist together. Now, as the youngest and smallest of the herd, she is polite to the other girls and is aware of her place in the group.

Our animal care professionals take extra care when introducing a new animal to any other animal as it can take time for everyone to feel comfortable. Fortunately for Louise, from start to finish it took less than two weeks from that initial introduction to full integration. While the herd is still getting used to her, we are all so happy Louise joined us.

Here are some interesting facts about yaks!

  • Yaks have adapted to endure very cold temperatures, up to -40 degrees Celsius!
  • Since they are built to endure freezing temperatures, they have very big lungs and hearts! They even require an extra pair of ribs to support them.
  • They are known to be very sweet and well-tempered animals. They can also be found cuddling together during chilly days.
  • The sound they make is a low grunting sound, more like a pig than a cow.
  • Yak fibers are used for a variety of purposes, including creating soft clothes that can feel like cashmere. Yak milk is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and may have potential benefits for hypertension due to containing peptides!

Visit our website to learn more about all the animals in the Animals of Asia area.