Chinkara

Indian Gazelle ( Gazella bennettii )

The Indian Gazelle ( Gazella bennettii ), also called Chinkara is a species of mammal native to Asia from the kind of gazelles ( Gazella ).

Features

The Indian gazelle reaches a body length of about one meter, her weight is around 25 kg and their shoulder height around 65 centimeters. Their fur is reddish - brown on the top and on the flanks, the underside is lighter, almost white. From the eyes to the snout, two dark brown stripes extend. The horns of the males are usually about 20 inches long, the record was previously at 39 centimeters.

Distribution and habitat

Indian gazelles are common in southern Iran, Pakistan and northern India. Their habitat is dry, open areas such as grasslands and desert areas.

Way of life

Indian gazelles live in groups of 3 to 30 animals, but are also to be found individually. Especially active are the shy Chinkaras morning and at dusk. Like most species of gazelle they can survive long periods without water.

Threat

By hunting the holdings in Iran and Pakistan have declined significantly, however, stocks in India are stable and are estimated at about 100,000 animals. The Indian Gazelle thus not one of the endangered species.