World Heritage Yak Conservancy’s
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Conservation of Endangered Yak
After more than a century of genetic separation from their cousins on the high Tibetan plateau, the remnant purebred yaks of North America represent a unique and important genetic resource. Our WHYC GeneBank and novel research contributes unique genetic information that’s critical to the conservation of this rare and endangered species. This initiative also contributes important biological samples to the WHYC SeedBank. Our Genetic Conservation Partnerships include the Livestock Conservancy, NIH GenBank, American Zoological Association, and University Wisconsin Madison, and University of Illinois Champagne Urbana Genotyping Research Teams.
We are currently listed as Critically Endangered on the Conservation Priority List at the Livestock Conservancy. Ranked as a Critical breed on the Conservation Priority List, fewer than 200 purebred American Yaks are registered in the US annually. The estimated global population is less than 500. We are grateful to the Livestock Conservancy for acknowledging our conservation efforts over the last 5 years with an official Critical listing on the Conservation Priority List for 2023.
The Livestock Conservancy’s American Yak Threat Evaluation (Click Here)
Sustainable Registrations
The Heritage Yak Herdbook is how we track the Heritage yak in North America and abroad. Hybrids and Crossbred animals must be carefully evaluated and identified to ensure the integrity of America’s highly endangered pure lineages. Significant numbers of purebred stock must be maintained to safeguard the future seedstack of this rare and spectacular breed in America. WHYC registration is a Mark of Pedigreed Excellence and contributes important genetic data to the WHYC SeedBank.
LDR Dr. Lock
Responsible Yak Breeding: Best Practices
“Interbreeding with cattle is identified as the greatest threat to global yak populations.”
- P. Buzzard, IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
We need solid breeding practices to maintain a healthy herd and avoid a genetic bottleneck. Inbreeding is a major concern for our isolated yak population. It all Begins with Sustainable Breeding for effective Heritage Breed Conservation. Education about Best Practices is critical to preserving this remnant population. We work hard to provide the important educational opportunities and mentorship to our new members.
