A Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), the largest antelope in Asia, was rescued by locals of Natore's Bagatipara upazila on Saturday.
The endangered species was found in Sheikh Para area of the upazila. Dr. Abu Hayder, an officer of the Upazila Animal Resources Department, identified the animal as a rare Nilgai.
Historically, Nilgais were found in the northern regions of Bangladesh until the 1940s, particularly in the Tetulia area. However, they were declared extinct in the region thereafter, according to local officials.
Locals initially mistook the animal for a different species of cow when they spotted it in Doyarampur area under the upazila. They pursued the animal, eventually capturing it in Sheikh Para.
Bagatipara Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ha-Meem Tabassum Prova confirmed the rescue and assured that the animal has been sent to the Animal Resources Department for further care and protection.
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