The gaur is the largest living wild cattle species.
Known scientifically as Bos gaurus, the gaur is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Its massive build, high shoulder ridge, pale lower legs and white “stockings” distinguish it from most other bovines. The species is also called the Indian bison, although it is not a true bison and belongs to the cattle genus Bos.
A common mix-up is the gayal, or mithun, a domesticated form descended partly from gaur. Water buffalo can be extremely large and powerful, but they are domesticated or feral animals rather than the largest wild cattle species. Gaur live in forests, grasslands and woodland mosaics, where adults may face few natural predators; tigers mainly target calves or weakened individuals.
The species is listed as Vulnerable, with India holding the largest share of the remaining mature population. Taxonomists recognize regional variation in gaur, but the species-level answer remains Bos gaurus.