Mammals
Nilgai
Boselaphus tragocamelus · also called blue bull
Standing taller than nearly any other antelope in Asia, a nilgai bull shows off the blue-grey colouring that gives the species its name, a giant so often mistaken for cattle that many communities across India extend it the same cultural protection.
Overview
The nilgai, Boselaphus tragocamelus, is the largest antelope species in Asia, native to grassland and forest habitat across the Indian subcontinent. Its distinctive blue-grey colouring in mature males, cultural protection linked to its resemblance to cattle, and record-setting size among Asian antelope make it one of the most culturally significant and physically imposing antelope species found anywhere in South Asia.
Protected by resemblance alone
The nilgai’s widespread protection across parts of India owes much to its cattle-like appearance rather than any formal endangered status, a cultural connection that has helped the species remain abundant even as it increasingly comes into conflict with farmers.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and abundant across suitable grassland and forest habitat throughout the Indian subcontinent.
Nilgai: common questions
Why is the nilgai called the blue bull?
This species shows males developing a blue-grey colouring as they mature, a feature reflected directly in the name nilgai, which translates to blue cow, and in its alternative common name, blue bull.
How big is the nilgai compared to other Asian antelope?
This species is the largest antelope found anywhere in Asia, considerably bigger than most other antelope species sharing its native range across the Indian subcontinent.
Why is the nilgai protected in parts of India?
This species is widely protected across parts of India, where its resemblance to cattle has led some communities to treat it with similar cultural reverence, despite the species not being an actual bovine.
Does the nilgai cause any problems for farmers?
Yes, this species can cause significant damage to agricultural crops in parts of its range, a consequence of its large, protected population that limits available options for population control.