Barasingha, also known as the swamp deer, is a species of deer native to India and Nepal. They are known for their impressive antlers, which can have up to 12 points.
Barasingha deer live in swampy or marshy areas, and they are well adapted to their wetland habitats. They have long, strong legs that allow them to move through mud and water with ease, and their hooves are wide and splayed to help them maintain their footing.
Barasingha deer are herbivores and feed on grasses, leaves, and aquatic plants. They are an important prey species for tigers and other large predators.
| Sl No. | Characteristics | Description |
| 1 | Common Name | Bara Singha |
| 2 | Scientific Name | Rucervus duvaucelii |
| 3 | Length | 2.4 to 2.7 metres |
| 4 | Colour | dark grey or black body |
| 5 | Height / girth ( For animals and birds – height, for fishes / reptiles – girth of the body) | 110-120 cm |
| 6 | Average weight | 90 to 180 Kg |
| 7 | Food habits | squid ,fishes |
| 8 | Habitat | Melon-headed whales are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world |
| 9 | Any interesting facts about them | They are known to travel in large groups, sometimes numbering in the thousands, and often mix with other dolphin species |
Features
Bara Singha, also known as the Indian Swamp Deer or Barasingha, is a species of deer that is native to the Indian subcontinent. Both males and females have a light brown coat, with a distinctive white “stocking” pattern on their legs.
Male Bara Singha are much larger than females, with a height of up to 130 cm at the shoulder and a weight of around 180 kg, while females typically reach only around 100 cm in height and weigh up to 90 kg.
One of the most striking features of male Bara Singha is their impressive antlers, which can grow up to 1.2 meters long and have up to 12 points. The antlers are shed and regrown every year, and during the breeding season, males use them to display dominance over other males and attract females.
Bara Singha are known for their ability to adapt to a variety of habitats, including marshy areas and tall grasslands. They are also excellent swimmers, and often take to the water to escape predators or to reach new areas for grazing.
Food Habits
In terms of diet, Bara Singha are herbivores and mainly feed on grasses, leaves, and aquatic plants. They are known to graze in the morning and evening, and rest during the hotter parts of the day. During the monsoon season when their habitats are flooded, they are forced to feed on trees and shrubs.
Habitat
Bara Singha, or the Indian Swamp Deer, is found in parts of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the wetlands and grasslands of northern and central India. They are primarily found in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, as well as in Nepal and Bangladesh.
Bara Singha are well adapted to living in swampy areas and tall grasslands, and are often found near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and marshes. They also inhabit areas with dense vegetation and forested areas.
Vulnerable Species
Bara Singha or Indian Swamp Deer is considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its population has declined drastically due to habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching, and competition with domestic livestock for grazing areas.
According to the latest estimates, there are around 3,500 to 5,000 Bara Singha left in the wild, with the majority of them living in protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. In some areas, the population has shown signs of recovery due to conservation efforts, while in others, it continues to decline.
The main threats faced by Bara Singha include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, mining, and infrastructure development. Hunting and poaching for their antlers, meat, and skin is also a significant threat, despite being illegal in India. In addition, competition with domestic livestock for grazing areas has also led to a decline in the deer population.
Protected Areas
These protected areas provide a safe habitat for deer as well as other wildlife species. Here are some of the national parks in India where you can find Bara Singha:
Kanha National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh,is one of the largest in India and is known for its population of Bara Singha. It is also home to other iconic wildlife species like tigers, leopards, and wild dogs.
Manas National Park, located in the state of Assam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its population of endangered species like the Assam Roofed Turtle, Pygmy Hog, and Golden Langur. It is also home to Bara Singha, Indian Rhinoceros, and Asian Elephants.
Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its population of tigers as well as Bara Singha. It is also home to other wildlife species like leopards, wild dogs, and several species of deer.
Satpura National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a lesser-known gem and is known for its varied landscapes and biodiversity. It is home to Bara Singha, Indian Leopard, Indian Giant Squirrel, and Sloth Bear, among others.
