Species profile
About this species
The Tibetan Antelope, also known as the chiru, is a medium-sized bovid native to the Tibetan Plateau. Males possess long, slender, upright horns that can reach up to 70 cm in length, while females are hornless. The species is renowned for its incredibly fine, soft undercoat known as shahtoosh, which has made it a target for poaching.
High-altitude alpine steppe & grasslands of the Tibetan Plateau, typically at elevations between 3,700 & 5,500 metres above sea level, including cold desert plains & open meadows with sparse vegetation.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Tibetan Antelope with us in Tibet.
These departures are part of our Asia programme.
In the field, David Miles & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer (May to June) is ideal for photographing males in their finest condition, while late November to December offers dramatic imagery of pregnant females migrating to calving grounds. Early morning & late afternoon light provides the most favourable golden tones against the plateau backdrop.
Use a long telephoto lens of at least 400mm to photograph these shy animals without causing disturbance, as they are easily startled & will flee if approached too closely. Position yourself low to the ground to achieve a flattering eye-level perspective against the vast open plateau landscape. During the winter migration, travel to known crossing points in the Changtang region of Tibet to capture large herds moving together, offering compelling wide-angle opportunities as well.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Tibetan Antelope
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.