Blackbuck

Why in news?

• According to a new study from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), blackbucks in India have adapted well to natural and human-induced challenges to their survival.
• In spite of immense losses in grassland habitats across India, the data showed an increasing trend in blackbuck population numbers as compared to the recent past.

About Blackbuck:

• The blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), also known as the Indian antelope, is an antelope native to India and Nepal (it is extinct in Pakistan and Bangladesh).
• It inhabits grassy plains and lightly forested areas with perennial water sources
• The blackbuck is active mainly during the day. It forms three type of small groups, female, male, and bachelor herds.
• The blackbuck is herbivore and grazes on low grasses.
• In India, hunting of blackbuck is prohibited under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
• It is considered as of Least Concern as per IUCN red data book.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Consider the following statements regarding Black Buck:

1.It is endemic to Western Ghats.

2.It is seen mainly in thick evergreen forests.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer