February 5, 2009

Chital in the Wild

The Chital (of the genus Axis and species, axis) is also called Cheetal Deer or Spotted Deer. It has a reddish fawn coat marked with white spots. It is the most common species of deer found in the wooden regions of India and are known to have a lifespan of 20-30 years. They are found in small to large herds up to 100 individuals.

The Chitals primarily eat grass and vegetation, but they are known to eat their shed antlers for their rich nutrients. They shed their antlers annually. They are one of the favored prey of predators such as tigers and leopards.

Dec 2007
Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Feb 2008
Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

Dec 2008
Nagarahole National Park, Karnataka

Dec 2008
Wyanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

I particularly remember watching mesmerized a herd in the forests of Bandipur National Park while on my way from Mysore to Ooty.

The above are my captures of the Chital in four different states of India. I can recall on each occasion I have enjoyed watching the herd of these cute creatures more than shooting pictures.

13 comments:

Lakshmi said...

wow..u have been to several wildlife parks :)

Vamsee Modugula said...

That is a great series of Chitals from different parks. Beautiful animals. I am going to Corbett next month and hope to see some.

Btw, you got tagged. Check it out:
http://letsgoforavacation.blogspot.com/

Anonymous said...

Oh yes, I know them chitals! They are all I see when I am trying in vain to spot tigers in most game parks. :)


Lovely pictures...

Secret Mom Thoughts said...

Great wildlife shots.

GMG said...

Hi Celine! It's amazing: in India you have it all; I have some pictures of deers strolling around freely, but that was in Kenya... ;))

Meanwhile Blogtrotter has entered Rajasthan! Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Anonymous said...

Oh dear! Its so nice to see the deers, dear! Traveling is dear to you but doesn't it cost you dear, dear? Finally its nice to see you blogging - best way to keep in touch with near and dear. ;-)

Anonymous said...

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Fida said...

I spent 2 days in Bandipur Nationalpark, but wasn’t as lucky as you. I didn’t see any chital’s. You captured them beautifully. Thanks.

Unknown said...

I remembered my trips as a child to the 'Deer Park' in Mangalore to see the deers and on one or two lucky occassions got to feed one too:) I think the park has been shifted now!

Unknown said...

I remembered my trips as a child to the 'Deer Park' in Mangalore to see the deers and on one or two lucky occassions got to feed one too:) I think the park has been shifted now!

indicaspecies said...

Lakshmi,
I’ve been to a few more than those mentioned here. Someday I'd like to recollect and list them. I guess you are aware how much I love wildlife…


Vamsee,
I’m sure you will enjoy Corbett NP. All the best.
Another tag? Lol. Thanks. Will check it out soon.


Shantanu,
Haha..Stay there long enough and hope to see a tiger chasing those poor darlings.:D
Jokes aside, if you are keen to see a tiger, I'd suggest you to go to Bandhavgarh National Park in MP as the chances of seeing one there are very good. I did see a Royal Bengal beauty while there!


SMT:
Thank you.:)


GMG:
Indeed amazing.;)
Was it Masai Mara National Park Gil?

indicaspecies said...

Final Transit:
Puku,
Is that poetry? You inspire me to continue along the same lines..lol

Traveling does indeed cost me dear
And I go about it more than once a year
But ain't it money well spent my dear
It's like how some spend much on beer

Listen, gimme your attention and your ear
Do you know I can be sincere, also severe
Hey you, away from me you steer clear
Or else I shall #^*$@! till you run from me in fear..lol

With cheer!
c

indicaspecies said...

Ocean:
Thank you for dropping by. I shall be over to your blog soon.


Fida,
Thank you. I hope you get an opportunity to see more wildlife next time.


Iona,
Deer Park..hmm..I heard the animals have been shifted to Pilikula, and though I like the theme park, do not like the zoo. I like to see the animals roaming free in the wilderness.


Shriya,
I’ll be over to you right away. Thank you for dropping by Bala.