Chinkara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chinkara |
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| Chinkara in the Gir Forest, Gujarat | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Gazella
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| Species: |
bennettii
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The Chinkara (also called the Indian Gazelle) is a type of gazelle found in parts of Asia. You can find them in countries like India, Bangladesh, Iran, and Pakistan. They usually live in grassy areas and deserts.
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Chinkara Characteristics
Chinkaras are about 65 cm (26 in) (around 2 feet) tall. They weigh about 23 kg (51 lb) (around 50 pounds). Their fur is reddish-brown and shiny in summer. In winter, their white belly and throat stand out more.
They have cool dark stripes on their faces. These stripes run from their eyes to their nose. White stripes border these dark markings. Their horns can grow longer than 39 cm (15 in) (about 15 inches).
Where Chinkaras Live
Chinkaras prefer dry, open areas. They live in plains, hills, and deserts. You can also find them in dry scrublands and light forests. In India, they live in over 80 protected areas. This helps keep them safe.
In Pakistan, they can be found in high places, up to 1,500 m (4,900 ft) (about 4,900 feet) tall. In Iran, they live in the Kavir National Park.
In 2001, scientists thought there were about 100,000 chinkaras in India. Most of them, about 80,000, lived in the Thar Desert. Their numbers in Pakistan and Iran are smaller. This is because their homes are spread out.
Chinkara Lifestyle
Chinkaras are shy animals. They try to avoid people. They can live for a long time without drinking water. They get enough fluids from the plants they eat and from dew.
Most chinkaras are seen alone. But sometimes, you might spot them in small groups. These groups usually have up to four animals.
They share their homes with other plant-eating animals. These include nilgai, blackbuck, chausingha, wild goats, and wild pigs.
Who Hunts Chinkaras?
Chinkaras are hunted by several predators. These include leopards, Bengal tigers, and dholes (wild dogs). The Asiatic Cheetah used to hunt chinkaras a lot in India.
Outside of protected areas, chinkaras might be attacked by stray dogs. Wolves and golden jackals also hunt them.
See also
In Spanish: Chinkara para niños
