Seasonal changes in group size and composition of Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii) (Mammalia: Bovidae) in central Iran

Abstract

Abstract The social structure and seasonal changes in group size of Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii Groves, 1993) were studied in central Iran during a year. A total of 397 groups were observed between September 2013 and September 2014 in Dare Anjir Wildlife Refuge, Siakooh National Park and Booruie Wildlife Refuge. We assessed the seasonal group-size variation in these regions and found that the largest groups formed in autumn and winter. Chinkara groups never exceeded eight individuals in the studied areas. Solitary Chinkaras were observed very often in the study areas. The mean group size of Chinkara had significant difference between seasons in two protected areas. As a result, Chinkara group size in central Iran is one of the smallest ever documented in the world. Such small group sizes are likely due to the arid environment and poor-quality vegetation of the studied regions. The sex ratio was skewed significantly towards females in Dare Anjir Wildlife Refuge and Booruie Wildlife Refuge.