The mammals are the class of vertebrate animals characterized by the presence of mammary glands, the presence of hair or fur; specialized teeth; the presence of a neocortex region in the brain; and endothermic or 'warm-blooded' bodies. The brain regulates endothermic and circulatory system, including a four-chambered heart. In India there are 410 species, 186 genera, 45 families and 13 orders of which nearly 89 species are listed as threatened in the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Animals (IUCN 2006).

The chinkara, also known as the Indian gazelle, is native to Iran, Pakistan and India. It stands at 65 cm (26 in) tall and weighs about 23 kg (51 lb). Chinkara live in arid plains and hills, deserts, dry scrub and light forests. In 2001, the Indian chinkara population was estimated at 100000 with 800000 living in the Thar Desert. Chinkaras are shy and avoid human habitation.They can go without water for long periods and can get sufficient fluids from plants and dew. Although most are seen alone, they can sometimes be spotted in groups of up to four animals.

IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC) Photo: Allan Hopkins