Mammal · GBIF taxon 5220147
Chinkara
Gazella bennettiiAlso known as Indian Gazelle, Jeend
Chinkara thrive in the arid deserts, scrub forests, and dry grasslands of South Asia, where they can go long periods without drinking water by fulfilling their moisture needs through dew-laden vegetation. Extremely shy and swift, these slender gazelles perform bounding leaps known as stotting to alert herd members of approaching danger. Small group sizes and a buff-red coat help them seamlessly blend into the dry earth and thorn forests they call home.
ShyArid AdaptedFast Runner
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Herbivorous (grasses, leaves, fallen fruits, and dew-covered foliage)
Predators
- Leopard
- Asiatic Cheetah
- Golden Jackal
ThreatsHabitat loss, agricultural expansion, and illegal hunting
HabitatsArid deserts, dry scrub forests, grasslands, and sand dunes
Life span10–12 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyBovidae
- SpeciesGazella bennettii
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Keep Distance: Maintain a respectful distance, as they startle easily and flee at high speed.
- Use Binoculars: Observe from afar in dry habitats to avoid disturbing small grazing herds.
- Watch Early Morning: Look for activity around dawn when dew on leaves provides vital hydration.
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.







