Habitat Preferences, Foraging Ecology and Threats to Blackbuck in Semi-Arid Region of Jhajjar, Haryana

A comprehensive survey was conducted from August 2024 to July 2025 in the villages of Ukhal Chana, Silani Pana Keso and Surah in the Jhajjar district to assess the Blackbuck’s habitat preferences and feeding behaviour (Antilope cervicapra). Direct observations were carried out utilizing line transect and scan sampling methods. The study site was categorized into various habitat types, revealing that the Blackbuck exhibited the highest preference for scrubland (open, short grassland) and agricultural land, followed by wetland and barren areas, while avoiding built-up environments. The Blackbuck was observed feeding on 38 of 65 plant species, showing a strong preference for Poaceae (grasses), followed by Fabaceae (legumes), Amaranthaceae, and Asteraceae. The remaining plant families garnered comparatively lower preference, including Rhamnaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Malvaceae, Cucurbitaceae, and Meliaceae. This indicates a moderate selective foraging behaviour with highest preference for grasses, as the Blackbuck primarily consumes entire plants from the Poaceae family while selectively feeding on leaves, flowers, and pods from a diverse range of shrubs and trees. It faces numerous threats, including stubble burning, spraying of pesticides, predation and various anthropogenic activities. This study provides a scientific baseline for the pattern of habitat preference and feeding behaviour, which will inform forthcoming research and enhance our understanding of the ecology of Blackbuck, thereby guiding its conservation.