Geophagy by Blackbucks on Termite Mounds: Unveiling a New Aspect of Dietary Predilection by Antelopes

A routine survey in blackbuck habitats in Bhetnoi region of Ganjam district in Odisha, India revealed an interesting behaviour of blackbucks, with a sub-adult male blackbuck licking and consuming the termite mound’s soils. To the best of our knowledge, this phenomenon has never been observed for blackbucks. This finding was reconfirmed on subsequent visits, with this behaviour being observed in 30% of total survey periods. This phenomenon is seen in a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, butterflies, and isopods, especially herbivorous isopods. It serves as a mineral supplement for the animal, as well as providing gastrointestinal relief and lowering gut toxicity. This observation provides impetus to articulate research questions regarding blackbucks' dietary habits in relation to termite mounds, and any knowledge on the nutrient/element composition of such termite mounds will reveal interesting facts and information that will help in a better understanding of the function of termite mounds in the diet of antelopes, especially blackbucks.