Species in Nepal - Gaur (Bos gaurus)

This large male in Chitwan National Park saw a tiger kill one of the members of his herd. The rest of the herd, about 30 animals, fled to another part of the park, but this old bull decided to stay.
© WWF-Canon / Helena Telkanranta

The largest wild cattle species in the world

The gaur is the largest wild cattle species in the world, measuring up to 2 metres at the shoulders and weighing up to 900 kg.

The species is closely related to domestic cattle of the Indian subcontinent so much so that many biologists consider it likely not only to be a wild relative but also an ancestor.

Despite their massive size, gaurs are wary and avoid contact with humans. They live in small herds, but the herd does not defend any specific territory. They prefer to stay around large forested areas along with grasslands to graze in.

Another vulnerable species
Among endangered animals, the gaur is listed as vulnerable, and their numbers are declining - the current population is estimated to be between 13,000 and 30,000 animals.