Studies on the food and feeding habits of Gaur <i>Bos taurus</i> H. Smith (Mammalia: Artiodactyla: Bovidae) in two protected areas of Goa

Feeding habits and diet composition of gaur were studied at Bhagvan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, Goa. Altogether, 32 species of plants belonging to 17 families constitute the gaur diet. The fruits, leaves, young shoots, bark and flowers are consumed, with a preference for leaves (87%). In summer gaur also consumed the bark of cashew (Anacardium occidentale) and teak (Tectona grandis) trees. Strong association was observed between food preference and season (chi-square=12.94; p=0.001). Peak feeding activity was observed early in the morning (0630 to 0830 hr) and in the evening (1730 to 1845 hr). During hot hours of the day (1330 to 1530 hr), animals were found resting in the shade of large trees