What is this spot?

[Sabyasachi Patra]

This image of Gaur (Bos Gaurus) was captured in Bandipur Tiger Reserve on May this year. I am intrigued by the spot on the neck and it looks like a sore spot as we find in a Sambar. I had photographed it at that time and am processing those images now. Good to get some free time now.

Awaiting your comments.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II, Canon EF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM, EF 1.4xII ie. at 560mm optical focal length, ISO 200, f4, 1/50th of second. full frame image.

Cheers,
Sabyasachi

[Aditya Panda]

This is indeed interesting. May be Vikram could throw some light on this?

I like the way you have composed this image.

Cheers,
Aditya

[Vikram Nanjappa]

The "Sore Spot " , as found in the Sambar , does not occur among the Gaur. I took the liberty of doing a quick check on all the old and new literature before answering and could not find any mention of this. Which leads me to the conclusion that this is no more than a simple sore. She must have had an irritation and rubbed her neck against a branch or something to get some relief.
I would be interested if any body has any additional information on this.

[Mrudul Godbole]

Nice observation. Seems what Vikram has said is right. Liked the head turn and the diagonal composition.

[Bibhav Behera]

Nice hairdo... :) The horns look nice... Echo Vikram for the sore spot???