Bos gaurus

Bos gaurus

Bos gaurus, commonly known as the gaur, is a large bovine native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. The species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 1986, as its population has been declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Gaurs are the largest species of wild cattle, bigger than the African buffalo, the bison, and the water buffalo. They are distinguished by their dark brown to black coat, with the lower legs of a lighter color, and a prominent ridge on the back. The males have large, powerful horns that curve upwards, while females have more slender and slightly curved horns.

Description

The gaur is a strong and massively built species with a high convex ridge on the forehead between the horns, which gives it a distinctive appearance. Adult males are larger and heavier than females, weighing between 1,000 to 1,500 kg (2,200 to 3,300 lb), while females weigh 700 to 1,000 kg (1,500 to 2,200 lb). Their body length can range from 250 to 330 cm (8.2 to 10.8 ft), with a shoulder height of 170 to 220 cm (5.6 to 7.2 ft). The coat color varies from dark brown to black, and the lower part of the legs are white to tan, which is especially pronounced in males.

Habitat and Distribution

Gaurs primarily inhabit evergreen forests, deciduous forests, and grasslands. They are found in a range of countries across South Asia and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Their habitat ranges from sea level up to an elevation of approximately 2,800 meters (9,200 ft).

Behavior and Ecology

Gaurs are social animals, living in herds of up to 40 individuals, though older males often lead solitary lives. They are diurnal, being most active in the morning and late afternoon. Their diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, and shoots. Gaurs have few natural predators, with only the tiger and the saltwater crocodile posing a significant threat to adults.

Conservation

The primary threats to the gaur include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, illegal hunting for their body parts, and diseases transmitted from domestic cattle. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and disease management in wild populations. The gaur is protected under various national laws in the countries it inhabits, and it is present in several protected areas across its range.