Gaur

The Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Jharkhand, which is the last stronghold of the Gaur in the region, has witnessed an alarming decline in the Gaur population.
This decline raises serious concerns for the conservation of the species in this area.

About Gaur (Bos gaurus)

Also known as the Indian Bison.
The largest species among wild cattle and the Bovidae family.
Distribution: Native to South and Southeast Asia.

Habitat

Found mostly in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, as well as moist deciduous forests with open grasslands.
Prefers hilly terrains below 1,500-1,800 meters altitude.
Requires large, undisturbed forests with abundant water sources.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
CITES: Appendix I (strictest protection)
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest protection level in India)

Ecological Importance

Crucial for maintaining ecological balance in forests.
An important prey species for tigers.
As herbivores, they shape vegetation dynamics and help in seed dispersal.

Threats

Habitat loss across much of their range.
Vulnerable to domestic cattle diseases such as rinderpest and hoof or mouth disease.

Source: THE HINDU

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