ANTELOPES. 



279 



usually stands from 4 feet 4 inches to 4 feet 8 inches at the withers, but it is stated 

 that 4 feet 10 inches has been measured. The cows are much smaller. The black 

 horns average 8 or 9 inches in length, with a basal girth of 8 inches ; but one pair 

 has been recorded with a length of llf and a girth of 9 \ inches. 



The nilgai is exclusively an Indian animal, being quite unknown 



in Ceylon. Even in India its distribution is restricted, as it does not 



occur in Eastern Bengal or Assam nor, apparently, near the Malabar coast. Fossil 



the nilgai (iV nat. size). 



species occur in the river-gravels of Central India, and also in the Pliocene sandstones 

 of the Siwalik Hills at the foot of the Himalaya. 



Nilgai may be found either on the plains or in low hills, generally 

 preferring ground covered with thin bush, among which are scattered 

 low trees, or alternations of scrub-jungle with open grassy plains. They are but 

 seldom met with in thick forest, although far from unfrequent on cultivated 

 grounds. The bulls are generally solitary, but occasionally assemble in small 

 parties, which, according to Mr. Blanford, may include as many as a dozen head. 

 The females and calves are generally found in parties of from four to ten, but 

 sometimes in herds of from fifteen to twenty or more, and they are on some 



Habits. 



