Asian East Caucasian Tur

East Caucasian Tur

(Capra cylindricornis)

Current SCI all time record: Score 179 6/8 - Azerbaijan, Kubinsk - 9/78

Description: The coat in winter is a uniform dark chestnut brown, with slightly lighter underparts. The summer coat is much lighter (in both hue and density), being rusty brown in colour. A small tuft of hair under the chin of adult males resembles a beard. The thick, stout body is supported by relatively short legs. The horns of adult males are massive and, unlike those in most other goats, do not have prominent knobs on their forward surface. Gently lyrate, the horns resemble those of the Spanish ibex, curving out and upwards from the forehead, then slightly down and inwards, curling upwards at the tips. With a cross-section resembling a rounded triangle, they may grow 80-103 cm / 32-41 inches. Females do have horns, but these are much less spectacular than those of males, growing no more than 30 cm / 12 inches in length.

Other Common Names: Daghestan Tur

Size:

Range: Eastern Caucasus Mountains of Russia and Azerbaijan.

Natural History: During the warm months, feeding occurs at intervals throughout the late afternoon, night, and morning, with the hottest hours of the day being spent resting in sheltered places. In winter, herds may remain in open pastures throughout the day, alternately grazing and resting. Daily movements may cover 15-20 kilometers / 9-12 miles. There is a seasonal migration covering a vertical distance of 1,500-2,000 m / 5,000-6,500 feet, with an upward thrust in May and a retreat downwards in October. The solitary adult males generally inhabit higher altitudes than groups of females and their young, descending to join them in the breeding season. During this time, vigorous competitions arise as they vie for mating rights. In protected areas, the population density varies between 50 and 160 animals per 1,000 hectares.

Hunting Characteristics: