The nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) is the largest antelope of Asia, and is ubiquitous across the northern Indian subcontinent. The vernacular name nilgai comes from the fusion of the Hindi words nil (blue) and gai (cow). The mature males appear ox-like and are also known as Blue bulls because of the typically bluish-grey coat. Females and juveniles are orange to tawny. The nilgai has a white stripe that extends from the underbelly and broadens as it approaches the rump, forming a patch lined with dark hair. Nilgai occur in India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Significant numbers occur in the Terai lowlands in the foothills of the Himalayas. They are social animals and live in small groups of up to 10.
