India: Peryar NP – Gaurs

We got super lucky to spot a large grous of gaurs. The Gaur (Bos gaurus), aka the Indian Bison, is a large wild bovine native India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand. It is the largest species among wild cattle. Gaurs are massive, with males standing up to 2.0m at the shoulder and weighing 588–1500 kg (1,296–3,307 lb). Females are smaller, around 700 kg (1,500 lb). They have dark brown-black coats, white “stockings” on their legs, and short, curved horns. Gaurs live in small herds in mountainous forests and grasslands, like those in Periyar NP. They are vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and poaching, with an estimated 21,000 mature individuals remaining in the world, mostly in India. They are shy but can be aggressive if startled. They are herbivores, grazing on grasses, leaves, and shrubs.