Bihar is home to a variety of wildlife species. The state animal of Bihar is Gaur. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Gaur, its characteristics, habitat, and conservation status.
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What is the state animal of Bihar?
The state animal of Bihar is the Gaur also known as the Indian bison. It was declared as the state animal of Bihar in 2017. The Gaur is a large and powerful wild ox that is found in various parts of India, including the forests of Bihar.
"The Gaur is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss and hunting."
Characteristics of the State Animal of Bihar
Gaur is a massive animal, with males standing up to 6 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing as much as 1,500 kg. Females are slightly smaller, weighing around 700-800 kg. Both males and females have short, thick, and curved horns that are used for self-defense and territorial displays.
The Gaur has a dark brown or black coat with white markings on its face, legs, and tail. The Gaur has a muscular body, a large head, and a hump on its shoulders that is made up of powerful muscles used for digging and pushing.
Habitat and Distribution of the Gaur
The Gaur is primarily found in forested areas and grasslands in India, Southeast Asia, and some parts of the Himalayas. In India, the Gaur is found in many states, including Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
In Bihar, the Gaur is found in the Valmiki National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located in the West Champaran district of the state. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and over 50 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, and 39 species of reptiles.
Conservation Status of the Gaur
The Gaur is listed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss and hunting.