Gaurus

Gaurus is a rarely used term that may refer to the gaur (Bos gaurus), a large bovine native to South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia. In English, the plural is normally gaurs; gaurus is not common and is generally seen only in nonstandard usage or in transliterations.

The gaur is the largest living bovine species. Adult males can reach substantial weights, often cited around 1,200–1,500 kilograms, with females smaller. It has a dark coat that ranges from brown to nearly black, a pronounced shoulder hump, and a strong, muscular body. The horns are thick and curve upward, with a central boss that can be prominent in adults. The head is relatively large, and the neck is strong, well-suited to the animal’s powerful build.

Distribution and habitat are tied to forested areas and adjacent grasslands across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. Historically widespread, modern populations persist mainly in protected forests and sanctuaries in countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and parts of Southeast Asia. The gaur favors dense tropical and subtropical forests with open feeding grounds and is generally shy of human activity, though it can come into conflict near agricultural areas.

Ecology and behavior include social herding patterns, with groups typically led by a dominant cow and consisting of her calves and other females, while bulls may be solitary or form small bachelor groups. As a herbivore, it feeds on grasses, leaves, shoots, and fruits.

Conservation status is endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and fragmentation. Protected areas and conservation programs aim to maintain viable populations and reduce human-wildlife conflict.