Barasingha is a species of deer found in India and Nepal. The spelling of the word "barasingha" is determined by its pronunciation, which can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription as /bʌrəˈsɪŋɡə/. This means that the "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "tub", the "i" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "i" in "sit", and the "a" in the final syllable is pronounced like the "a" in "arm". The "s" in the middle of the word is pronounced like a "z".
Barasingha, also known as the swamp deer, is a large species of deer found in the Indian subcontinent. The term "barasingha" is derived from the Hindi words "bara," meaning twelve, and "singha," meaning horns. This reference to its impressive antlers is significant, as the distinguishing characteristic of the barasingha is its remarkable set of antlers.
The barasingha is typically medium to large in size, with mature males weighing up to 180 kilograms and standing about 130 centimeters tall at the shoulder. It has a reddish-brown coat, which becomes darker during the winter months. The most striking feature of the barasingha is its branched antlers, which can bear up to twelve points or tines. These antlers are shed annually and regrow during the breeding season known as rut.
The habitat of the barasingha principally consists of grassy marshes, swamps, and floodplains, primarily in the regions of India and Nepal. They are herbivorous animals, feeding on grasses, aquatic plants, and shrubs found in their habitats. While they predominantly graze during the day, they are known to adopt a nocturnal lifestyle during the hot summer months.
The barasingha is an important species for conservation, as its population has significantly declined due to habitat destruction and poaching. Conservation efforts have been made to safeguard their habitats and regulate hunting, contributing to population stability in some areas. The beauty and distinctiveness of the barasingha, including their majestic antlers, make them highly valued in both wildlife tourism and for scientific study.
The word "barasingha" has its etymology rooted in the Hindi language. It is derived from the combination of two Hindi words: "bara", meaning twelve, and "singh", referring to a male deer or stag. The name "barasingha" directly translates to "twelve-horned" or "twelve-tined". This name is given to the species of deer, known scientifically as Rucervus duvaucelii, due to the distinctive antlers possessed by adult males, which typically have about twelve points or tines.