DOMESTIC GAYAL
Bos frontalis frontalis
DESCRIPTION
Domestic gayal (Bos frontalis frontalis), also known as Mithun, is a domesticated form of the gayal, a large bovine species. They are characterized by their robust build, with a large head, short legs, and a distinctive hump on their shoulders. These animals are known for their gentle temperament and are often used as draft animals in rural communities, playing a significant role in the agricultural practices of the regions they inhabit.
FUN FACTS
- Domestic gayal are known for their unique vocalizations, which include a variety of grunts and bellows that help maintain social bonds within the herd
- | They are also culturally significant in some regions, often being featured in local festivals and rituals, highlighting their importance beyond just agricultural use
QUICK INFO
Lifespan15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 years in captivi
Average Weight300-600 kg
Average Length2-3 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuregroup — they typically live in small herds consisting of females and their young, with a dominant male.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonYear-round, with peaks during the rainy season
- Habitat
- Domestic gayal typically inhabits grasslands and forested areas where they can graze freely. They are often found in regions with ample water sources.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Forest
- Native Range
- Domestic gayal is native to the northeastern regions of India, particularly in the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, as well as parts of Myanmar.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- India, Myanmar
- Diet
- Domestic gayal primarily feeds on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation. They are known to graze extensively in their natural habitats.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grasses, leaves
- Social Structure
- group — they typically live in small herds consisting of females and their young, with a dominant male.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-15
- Territorial
- 0
VU
300-600 kg
Weight
2-3 m
Length
1.5-1.8 m at shoulder
Height (Shoulder)
- Coloration
- Domestic gayal usually have a dark brown to black coloration, with lighter patches on their body.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally larger and more robust than females.
- Lifespan
- 15-20 years in the wild, up to 25 years in captivi
- Gestation Period
- 270 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 1
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Year-round, with peaks during the rainy season
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Domestic gayal is stable, but they are less common than their wild counterparts.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- The main threats to Domestic gayal include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and crossbreeding with other cattle species. Additionally, they face competition for resources from other livestock.
- Predators
- Humans are the primary threat, but young gayals may be vulnerable to large carnivores such as tigers and leopards.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their size and strength for defense, and can also exhibit aggressive behavior when threatened.
- Compatible Animals
- Cattle, goats, sheep
- Found in Zoos
- Rare