Chiru are animals that are also known as the Tibetan Antelope (Pantholops hodgsoni). The male Chiru has horns 20 to 23 inches long, while the female is hornless; their color varies from beige or light grey to white. The weight of a Chiru is between 57-88 pounds (or 26-40kg). The wool of the Chiru is known as shahtoosh meaning "king of wool". This wool is the softest, finest and warmest wool in the world. It is estimated that around 20,000 Chiru are killed every year for their wool, which is why they are endangered. The wool is extremely valuable and even though trade of this wool is banned, poachers still get large amounts of money for this much sought after luxury fiber.

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