Many different animals roam the mountains, plateaus, and valleys of Tibet. While the yak is the most common, Erik and the climbing team may also observe sheep, goats, musk deer, antelope, and gazelles. Giant and red panda bears live in the mountainous slopes of eastern Tibet. Sadly, their numbers are dwindling due to deforestation (and the resulting loss of bamboo); poaching for the pet and fur trades; and competition from domestic livestock.