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- Published: 23 Oct 2007
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- Author: cyrilkalathoor
The Chinkara (Gazella bennettii) is a species of gazelle found in south Asia. It lives in grasslands and desert areas in India, Bangladesh and parts of Iran and Pakistan. It is also known as the Indian Gazelle (Gazella gazella bennetti).
This gazelle stands at 65 centimetres and weighs about 23 kilograms. Its summer coat is a reddish-buff colour, with smooth, glossy fur. In winter the white belly and throat fur is in greater contrast. The sides of the face have dark chestnut stripes from the corner of the eye to the muzzle, bordered by white stripes. The horns reach over 39 centimetres.
It is a shy animal and avoids human habitation. It can go without water for long periods and can get sufficient fluids from plants and dew. Although most individuals are seen alone, they can sometimes be spotted in groups of up to four animals.
Certain researchers consider the decline in the Chinkara population as the reason behind the extinction of the Asiatic Cheetah in India. Its population is on the decline due to it being hunted for game. The Bishnoi community traditionally protect wildlife in the state of Rajasthan. In a famous case an Indian film star Salman Khan was sentenced to a 5 year prison sentence for shooting chitkara and blackbuck living under their protection. Another film star, Saif Ali Khan, faced similar allegations.
Category:Gazella Category:Flora and fauna of Rajasthan Category:Mammals of India Category:Mammals of Pakistan Category:Fauna of Iran Category:Fauna of Bangladesh Category:Megafauna of Eurasia
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