Saola
Recently discovered, already threatened
Scientific Name: Pseudoryx nghetinhensis
Location: Indochina, a region in Southeast Asia
With its unusually long horns and white markings on the face, the saola is a strong symbol for biodiversity in Lao and Vietnam. Discovered in May 1992, during a joint survey carried out by the Ministry of Forestry of Vietnam and WWF in north-central Vietnam, the species remains almost as elusive today as it was more than a decade ago.
Despite the little information available on the saola, there is no doubt that its existence is severely threatened. Since its discovery, it is believed to have rapidly declined in the face of ever-growing hunting pressure. The actual size of the remaining population is unknown and its rarity, distinctiveness and vulnerability make it one of the greatest priorities for conservation in the region. The current population is thought to be a few hundred at maximum and possibly only a few dozen at a minimum. None have survived in captivity.
A safe space for saolas
In April 2011, a reserve was declared to help protect saolas. The Quang Nam’s People Committee inaugurated the Quang Nam Saola Nature Reserve in the Annamite mountains along the border of Vietnam and Laos.
“The establishment of this new protected area by the province of Quang Nam is of vital importance to the survival of the saola,” said Dr. Barney Long, WWF’s Asian species expert. “We applaud the efforts made to secure the habitat of this critically endangered species and hope that the required anti-poaching efforts are quickly implemented to ensure a future for this species in the province.”
WWF has been involved with the protection of the species since its discovery. We have helped improve the management of Vu Quang Nature Reserve, a protected area where the species is found, and have supported the livelihoods of local people.
Physical description
The saola is a primitive member of the Bovidae family, which includes antelopes, buffalo, bison, cattle, goats and sheep. The species is recognized by two parallel horns with sharp ends, which can reach 20 inches in length. These are found on both males and females, probably as a means of defense. They have striking white markings on the face and large maxillary glands on the muzzle that may be used to mark territory or attract mates. An adult saola is estimated to weigh from 176-220 pounds.
Did you know?
Some saolas have been reported to break small saplings in half by wedging them between their horns and suddenly twisting their head. Although the significance of this behavior is not known, similar traits in other ungulates are used for territorial marking.
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