Food and Feeding Habits of Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) in Agricultural Crops and Associated Habitats in Telangana

Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) is a predominantly graminivorous species,
consuming forbs, shrubs, and agricultural crops i.e., feeding mainly on fresh grass blades and
tender parts of crops depending on seasonal availability. This study evaluates the dietary
patterns of Blackbuck in Mahbubnagar, Telangana, India, highlighting the impact of seasonal
variations, habitat preferences, and competition with livestock. Observations were conducted
fortnightly from 2019 to 2022 using a modified bite count method, with plant species
identification confirmed through field surveys. Results suggest that Blackbuck adapt their
feeding habits to optimize nutrient intake, with notable dietary overlap with livestock.
Blackbuck consumed 32 plant species, including 14 graminoids, 12 forbs, and 6 browse
species. During summer in Mahbubnagar, they additionally feed on legumes of the exotic
Prosopis juliflora, berries of Ziziphus species. Conservation and habitat management
strategies should account for these interactions to maintain ecological balance and minimize
human-wildlife conflict.