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 Ilf and a girth of inches. 
The nilgai is exclusively an Indian animal, being quite unknown 
Distribution. . * . / . . . & 1 . 
m Ceylon. Even m 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 maybe 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 
