The name “saola” comes from local languages spoken by people in Laos and nearby ethnic groups, and it means “spindle horns,” referring to the animal’s long, straight horns. They are antelope-like mammals, about the size of a deer.
Nicknamed the “Asian unicorn” because of their scarcity, they live deep in the dense forested Annamite Mountains between Vietnam and Laos which are also known for their biodiversity. Saolas are part of the cattle family. Evidence of their presence is found in various areas of the wild across both countries, for example Ha Tinh and Bolikhamxay. Despite this, the species is critically endangered. The last confirmed sighting in the wild was reportedly a 2013 camera-trap image from central Vietnam. It is thought that there are currently no saolas in captivity.
Saolas have a dark reddish, light brown coat and long, parallel, black, pointy horns that can reach up to 20 inches (on both females and males). Directly below those are distinctive white stripes above each eye and varying white patterns along their cheeks and jaw, matching white lips and chin. Along with a cluster of white whiskers on the chin, saolas have large maxillary glands in front of their eyes that secrete a musk-like substance. The neck is relatively long and heavy, and a narrow black stripe runs down the spine to the tail. The tail itself is short and brown, with a white stripe and tipped in black.
Saola are critically endangered. That means there are very, very few left. Estimates from the Saola Working Group suggest there are less than 100 surviving saola today in the wild, and probably a lot less. Scientists are working hard to protect them, but it’s tough because saola are so secretive. The saola is so rare primarily due to hunting but also commercial snaring, which traps and kills them, as well as habitat loss from deforestation. Other reasons for their endangered status are poaching for meat and traditional medicine, as well as a high aversion to human proximity, which is what makes them so hard to find and protect.
Even young people can help save animals like the saola! Learning about endangered animals and sharing what you know is a great start. You can also support groups that protect forests and wildlife. Key actions include donating to groups like the Saola Foundation or WWF. Participating in or supporting anti-poaching and snare-removal initiatives could also help raise awareness!
Fun facts
- The saola was only discovered in 1992!
- They are so rare, no one has ever seen one in the wild for more than a few minutes, and one was last seen in 2013.
- Saolas are also called “the Asian unicorn,” even though they have two horns! This is because of their elusive nature and the fact they are so rare – as rare as a unicorn.
- Observations suggest a saola can extend its tongue up to 16 cm to groom its face and eyes.
- According to records, they are very fearful of dogs!
