Nilgai Antelope graze, National Zoological Park, Delhi
Nilgai Antelope come from India and occur over almost the entire country. They are a member of the
Bovine family and are related closely to the African spiral-horned Antelopes. More than 60 percent
of Nilgai births bring twins. It is estimated that there are more than 15,000 in captivity. By
contrast, there are probably no more than 10,000 left in India.
Grazing Nilgais sometimes lower themselves to their "knees", and when eating leaves they can stand
on their hind legs for a short time. Adult male Nilgais can weigh up to 530 pounds, and females
can weigh up to 275 pounds. The babies will weigh about 30 to 35 pounds at birth, and reach sexual
maturity at about 18 months. Nilgai have a lifespan of about 20 years.
