Musk Ox: Ancient creatures with big coats and a bigger odor

One of our favorite pairs in the collection is Matt + Marcie Musk Ox.

While musk oxen are well known for their thick coats that almost reach the ground, they got their name because of the males’ strong odor.  He has scent glands under his eyes that emit a deep musky odor when he rubs his face on bushes and branches.  Despite the odor, they are social creatures and live in heards of ten to twenty animals, and sometimes many more.

Below are a couple of videos showing the Musk Ox. The first video shows you how the Musk Ox meanders over the ground and the second highlights the harsh conditions they face. Let’s just be glad that the videos do not come with smells!