July 28, 2025

Nestled in the semi-arid Terai plains of western Nepal, the Blackbuck Conservation Area (BCA) is one of the country’s smallest but most targeted protected areas, established specifically to conserve the endangered blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra). Located in Gulariya Municipality of Bardia District, this unique conservation zone spans only about 15.95 square kilometers, yet plays a critical role in protecting one of the last populations of this elegant antelope in Nepal.

Why Blackbucks Matter

Once widely found across the southern lowlands of Nepal, blackbuck populations declined dramatically due to habitat loss, poaching, and agricultural expansion. By the 1970s, the species was considered extinct in Nepal. Remarkably, a small remnant population was rediscovered in the Bardiya region in 1975. Since then, focused conservation efforts led to the establishment of the Blackbuck Conservation Area in 2009, supported by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and local communities.

Habitat and Landscape

  • Location: Gulariya Municipality, Bardia District, Lumbini Province
  • Elevation: Approximately 150–200 meters above sea level
  • Habitat Type: Open grasslands, acacia forests, and cultivated buffer zones

This flat, lowland habitat mimics the blackbuck’s native preference for open plains. The area is actively managed to maintain grassland cover, prevent encroachment, and minimize human-wildlife conflict.

Wildlife in the Area

Flagship Species:

  • Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra) – elegant, spiral-horned antelope with distinct sexual dimorphism

Other Notable Fauna:

  • Indian hare
  • Jungle cat
  • Bengal monitor lizard
  • Various reptiles and ground-dwelling birds

While blackbuck is the clear focus, the area also supports a small but diverse ecosystem that contributes to ecological balance.

Conservation Success and Challenges

Community Involvement has been key to success. Local people are employed as wildlife watchers and habitat managers, and the creation of buffer zones has helped reduce conflict. As of recent counts, the population of blackbuck in BCA exceeds 200 individuals, showing a steady upward trend.

Challenges include:

  • Limited space for natural expansion
  • Encroachment from nearby farmland
  • Occasional poaching or dog attacks

There are proposals to translocate blackbucks to other suitable habitats to ensure long-term viability.

Visitor Information

Although not a mainstream tourist site, BCA can be visited with permission from local authorities or conservation offices. Visits are best arranged through Bardia National Park offices, often as a side trip from wildlife experiences in the nearby national park.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Winter to early spring (November–March) offers clear weather and good visibility of the blackbucks grazing in open grasslands.

Activities:

  • Blackbuck observation walks
  • Grassland ecology studies
  • Community conservation experiences

At a Glance

CategoryHighlights
Signature SpeciesBlackbuck (Antilope cervicapra)
LandscapeTerai grasslands, acacia woodland
Size15.95 sq. km
Conservation ModelSpecies-specific focus, community-led
Best ForConservation tourism, wildlife education