Megan Granger
Texas A&M University- Kingsville
M.S. Student/ Range and Wildlife Management/ Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute
I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Range and Wildlife Management at Texas A&M University- Kingsville. My research project is focused on studying the population demographics of nilgai in South Texas. Nilgai populations in this region continue to increase since their initial introduction in the 1920’s; however, there is still little known about this species. Therefore, my objectives are to determine a reliable field-based method for aging nilgai, determine the reproductive rates and capabilities of nilgai cows, and determine habitat characteristics of the landscapes where nilgai was observed. Based off cementum annuli aging, I was able to distinguish six age class categories that can be used to age nilgai cows in the field by assessing tooth eruptions and wear patterns. I was also able to determine that nilgai cows have exceptionally high pregnancy and twinning rates compared to that of similar species. Lastly, I determined that nilgai cows tend to be found in denser shrublands, while bulls are found in more open shrublands. The outcomes of this study will provide tools for managers that will aid in determining the age structures of nilgai populations and determine at what rate these populations are rising.
