Chinkara
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| Indian Gazelle | ||||||||||||||||
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| Gazella bennettii (Sykes, 1831) |
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This article does not cite any references or sources. (March 2008) Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unverifiable material may be challenged and removed. |
The Chinkara is a species of gazelle found in South Asia. Found in grasslands and desert areas in India, parts of Iran and Pakistan,& Bangladesh.
It is also known as the Indian Gazelle (Gazella gazella bennetti)
This gazelle stands at 65 centimetres and weighs about 23 kilograms. Its summer coat a warm biscuit, or reddish-buff colour, with smooth, glossy fur. In winter the white belly and throat fur is in greater contrast. The sides of the face have dark chestnut stripes from the corner of the eye to the muzzle bordered by white stripes. The record horns reach over 39 centimetres.[1]
It is a shy animal and avoids human habitation.They have a special characteristic which helps them survive trying times. They can go without water for long periods and can even get sufficient fluids from plants and dew drops. Although mostly seen as solitary animals, they can sometimes be spotted in small groups numbering up to 3 - 4 individuals.
Certain researchers consider the decline in the Chinkara population as the reason behind the extinction of the Asiatic Cheetah in India. It is classified as extremely vulnerable and endowed in the highly endangered species list. Its population is on the decline due to it being hunted for game. The Bishnoi community traditionally protect wildlife in the state of Rajasthan. In a famous case an Indian film star Salman Khan was sentenced to a 5 year prison sentence for shooting chinkara and blackbuck living under their protection.
There are currently 80,000 gazelles left. It isn't much of a concern to conservationists because of it's wide range and stable population, despite being fully protected in its range.
[edit] References
- ^ Prater, S. H. 1971 The Book of Indian Animals. Oxford University Press, 2005 reprint.
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