Nutritional ecology, movement patterns and herd dynamics of Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) in Kuno National Park, Madhyra Pradesh

Abstract

Despite the various types of research done before on the nilgai, very little focus was given to what actually propelled forth their propensity to raid crops. This study was meant to delve into the factors that could possibly lead to crop raiding by nilgai. In context of the semi-arid zone, nutrition played a factor for nilgai that lived in places overrun by invasives, but did not provide any advantage to nilgai with access to natural vegetation. Through Manley’s selection ratios, it was found that nilgai select for savannah, especially at night, proving a negative association with forests. Models run for finer structural cues showed a negative selection for elevations, slope, hills and mixed forests. Avoidance of predators was seen despite lack of actual attack. Herd dynamics showed changes daily and across the breeding season. And finally, many novel behaviours of nilgai were noted; there is potential for further research on their social structure.