Hoofed animals
Blackbuck
Antilope cervicapra
Blackbuck
- Description
- The blackbuck is a slender, elegant antelope with striking differences between the sexes. Males are dark brown to black on the back with a white belly and long, spiralling horns reaching 50-70 cm, while females and young are pale fawn and usually hornless. It is one of the fastest mammals in Asia, able to sprint at up to 80 km/h. Males stand about 74-84 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20-57 kg.
- Habitat
- The blackbuck lives on open plains, grasslands, savannas and semi-desert regions of India, Nepal and Pakistan. It avoids dense forests and mountainous terrain, favouring areas with access to water.
- Diet
- It is a herbivore that grazes mainly on grasses but also feeds on herbs and the leaves of shrubs. In drier areas it will also take seeds and pods.
- Reproduction
- Gestation lasts about six months, after which the female gives birth to a single calf (occasionally two). Males compete for territory and mating rights.
- Lifespan
- In the wild blackbucks typically live around 10-12 years, while in human care they may reach up to 16 years.
- Did you know?
- In India the blackbuck is culturally significant and regarded as a sacred animal; in Hindu tradition it is said to draw the chariot of Lord Krishna.
Homeland & habitat
Where the blackbuck lives
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Indian subcontinentThe blackbuck inhabits open plains, savannas and semi-desert regions of India, Nepal and Pakistan, avoiding dense forests.
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Native rangeIntroduced / also today
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9 facts about the blackbuck
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