Capital

Thimphu

Official Language

Dzongkha

Fun Fact

The Bhutanese name for their country is Druk Yul, which translates to the "Land of the Thunder Dragon"

National Animal

Takin

National Bird

Raven

Add a PDF file and cover image

Animal Laws of Bhutan

The Animal Laws of Bhutan PDF contains the general animal protection and related statutes for Bhutan. Uncaged World updates these bi-annually. Always check official sources for the most up-to-date legal status.

Animals of Bhutan

Raven

IUCN Red List: Least Concern

The Raven is a large, highly intelligent bird found across the Northern Hemisphere in forests, mountains, deserts, and coastal regions. Recognized by its glossy black feathers, thick bill, and deep, croaking call, it is an adaptable omnivore that feeds on insects, small animals, fruit, seeds, and carrion. Ravens are excellent problem-solvers and are known to use tools, making them among the smartest birds in the world.

Takin

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Takin is a large, muscular hoofed mammal found in the mountainous forests of the Himalayas and southwestern China. Recognized by its shaggy golden or brown coat, sturdy build, and curved horns, it is well adapted to steep, rugged terrain. Takins feed on grasses, leaves, bamboo, and shrubs and often migrate seasonally between higher and lower elevations. Their thick coat helps them survive the cold mountain climate.

Himalayan Wolf

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Himalayan Wolf is a rare wild canid found in the high-altitude grasslands and mountain regions of the Himalayas. Adapted to cold, rugged environments, it has a thick pale coat and hunts wild sheep, goats, marmots, and other mountain animals. Himalayan Wolves usually live in small packs and play an important role in maintaining healthy alpine ecosystems. Habitat loss, declining prey, and conflict with livestock owners threaten populations across their range.

Red Panda

IUCN Red List: Endangered

The Red Panda is a small, tree-dwelling mammal found in the temperate forests of the Himalayas and southwestern China. Recognized by its reddish-brown fur, bushy ringed tail, and white facial markings, it spends much of its time in trees. Although it belongs to its own unique family, it feeds mainly on bamboo, along with fruits, berries, and insects. Habitat loss and poaching have made the Red Panda endangered.

Sloth Bear

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Sloth Bear is a shaggy bear found in the forests and grasslands of the Indian subcontinent. Recognized by its long, shaggy black fur, pale chest marking, and long snout, it feeds mainly on termites, ants, fruits, and honey. Using its powerful claws and specialized lips, it can suck insects from their nests with ease. Habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict have made the Sloth Bear vulnerable across much of its range.

Rufous-Necked Hornbill

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable

The Rufous-necked Hornbill is a large forest bird found in the evergreen forests of the eastern Himalayas and Southeast Asia. It is recognized by its colorful casque, pale bill, and the rich rufous feathers on the neck of males. Feeding mainly on fruits, along with insects and small animals, it plays an important role in dispersing seeds throughout the forest. Habitat loss and hunting have made this striking hornbill vulnerable across much of its range.