Facts about Gaurs
Gaur is the largest species of wild cattle, bigger than the Cape buffalo, water buffalo and bison. It is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. The gaur is recognized by the high convex ridge on the forehead between the horns, which bends forward, causing a deep hollow in the profile of the upper part of the head. The ridge on the back is very strongly marked, and there is no distinct dewlap on the throat and chest. Gaurs reach sexual maturity when they are two to three years of age. Their body length ranges from 250 to 360 cm(8.3 to 12 ft). Where gaurs have not been disturbed, they are basically diurnal, being most active in the morning and late afternoon and resting during the hottest time of the day. But where populations have been disturbed by human populations, gaurs have become largely nocturnal, rarely seen in the open after 8:00 in the morning. It is also called seladang. Due to their formidable size and power, the gaur has few natural enemies. Crocodiles, leopards, and dhole packs occasionally attack unguarded calves or unhealthy animals, but only the tiger has been reported to kill a full-grown adult. But on many instances tiger will be killed by the gaur. Male Gaurs often weight 1000 to 1500 kg(2200 to 3300 lb) while females weigh 700 to 1000 kg(1540 to 2200 lb). Their weight can reach 2000 kg. In the wild, they live in herds of 40 individuals. Its height at the shoulder 170 to 220 cm(5.6 to 7.2 ft). They have a gestation period of 275 days. There is a dewlap under their chin which extends between their front legs. |
SEARCH
Sponsors
Related Links |