Wildlife Conservation

Tibetan Antelope (Chiru): Recovering from Shahtoosh Trade

The Tibetan antelope, or chiru, was decimated by poaching for its ultra-fine wool (shahtoosh) used in luxury shawls. Protection efforts have allowed populations to partially recover.

Key Facts

Chiru produce the finest animal fiber in the world — warmer than cashmere
Shahtoosh shawls require killing 3-5 chiru per shawl; wool cannot be shorn from living animals
Population fell to around 70,000 by the 1990s from historical millions
International trade in shahtoosh is banned under CITES
Populations have recovered to around 150,000-200,000 with increased protection

Welfare Considerations

Poaching involves mass slaughter on the Tibetan plateau. Animals are shot in large groups, causing panic and distress. Young calves die when mothers are killed. The recovery of chiru populations demonstrates what is possible when trade bans are enforced — a genuine welfare success story.

What You Can Do

Never purchase shahtoosh shawls or scarves — they are illegal and cruel
Report suspected shahtoosh sales to wildlife trafficking authorities
Support snow leopard and wildlife protection projects in Tibet and Qinghai
Celebrate the chiru recovery as an example of successful wildlife protection