The Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus also one of several animals known as the bluebuck) is a steppe antelope, which displays many ox-like characteristics. It is found throughout India and has been introduced to Texas.
Nilgai stand about 1.5 metres at the shoulder and weigh around 170 kilograms. Female Nilgai are yellow-brown while males are grey-blue, however there are white parts on the cheeks, lips, throat and underside. Nilgai have thin legs, and a solid body, which slopes down from the shoulder. They have a small mane on the back of the neck and long hair dangling from their throat as well as a long thin head and two small conical horns.
Nilgai live on steppe and woodland areas where they eat grass, leaves and fruit. Nilgai are diurnal. Females and young males gather in herds of about fifteen individuals while older males are often solitary.
Nilgai originate in India where there are estimated to be 10,000 individuals, however they have been introduced to Texas where there are up to 15,000 individuals. It is categorised as low risk.
