Barasingha

Rucervus duvaucelii

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Artiodactyla · Cervidae

About

The barasingha, sometimes barasinghe, also known as the swamp deer, is a deer species distributed in the Indian subcontinent. Populations in northern and central India are fragmented, and two isolated populations occur in southwestern Nepal. It has been extirpated in Pakistan and Bangladesh, and its presence is uncertain in Bhutan.

Fun Fact

Barasingha (meaning 'twelve-tined') are the only deer adapted to swampy habitats in India — their wide, spreading hooves prevent them from sinking into soft marshland.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Swampy grasslands and floodplains

Diet

Herbivore

Lifespan

15-20 years

Threats

Invasive Species
Overgrazing
Urban Expansion

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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