Fauna in Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park is home to an incredible range of flora and fauna that will leave you spellbound. Among the various wildlife that call this park their home, the fauna in Bandipur is particularly captivating. The diverse landscape of the park, which spans across the Western Ghats and the Deccan Plateau, supports a rich array of animal species. Visitors can catch a glimpse of several endemic and endangered species while on safari drives or trekking through the park.
One of the most iconic inhabitants of Bandipur is the majestic Bengal tiger. The park is home to a significant population of these elusive cats, and they can often be spotted lounging in the shade or on the prowl in search of prey. Apart from tigers, Bandipur is also home to several other big cat species, including the leopard and the Indian lion. The park is also home to many herbivorous species, such as the majestic Asian elephant, the chital or spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, and wild boars. You can spot these animals grazing and foraging in the meadows and forests of the park.
Bandipur is also home to several primate species, including the endangered Nilgiri langur and the lion-tailed macaque. These charismatic primates can be seen swinging through the trees and socializing with their troops. For bird lovers, Bandipur is a paradise. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the colorful Indian peafowl, the majestic Indian eagle-owl, and the rare Malabar pied hornbill.
Endangered Species in Bandipur National Park:
Bandipur is home to a number of endangered species, including the Indian elephant, tiger, leopard, and gaur. These animals are protected by the Wildlife Protection Act of India and are given special attention by the forest authorities. The park also has a significant population of the critically endangered dhole, or Indian wild dog, which is one of the rarest canids in the world.
Mammals of Bandipur Forest Reserve:
Bandipur is known for its rich mammalian diversity, with over 80 species recorded within its boundaries. Some of the most iconic mammals found here include the Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, leopard, gaur, sambar, chital, sloth bear, and wild boar. Other mammals that can be spotted here include the Indian pangolin, hyena, dhole, barking deer, and mouse deer.
Reptiles and Amphibians in Bandipur:
Bandipur is also home to a rich diversity of reptiles and amphibians. The park has over 50 species of snakes, including the king cobra, Indian rock python, and common krait. It also has a variety of lizards, including the monitor lizard and chameleon. Amphibians found in Bandipur include various species of frogs, toads, and salamanders.
Avifauna of Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary:
Bandipur is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded within its boundaries. The park is home to a variety of raptors, including the crested serpent eagle, black eagle, and osprey. Other birds that can be spotted here include the Malabar trogon, Indian roller, painted stork, and grey-headed fish eagle.
Insects and Other Invertebrates in Bandipur:
The park has a rich diversity of insects and other invertebrates. Butterflies are particularly abundant, with over 100 species recorded within the park. Other notable insects found here include the giant atlas moth, stick insect, and cicada.
Biodiversity Conservation Efforts in Bandipur:
The forest authorities in Bandipur have taken significant steps to conserve the park's rich biodiversity. These include habitat management, anti-poaching measures, and scientific research. The park is also involved in various community-based conservation initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Best Time to Visit Bandipur for Fauna Sightings:
The best time to visit Bandipur for wildlife sightings is from October to May when the park is open to visitors. The cooler months from November to February are ideal for spotting tigers and other large mammals, while the summer months from March to May are great for birdwatching and butterfly spotting. Monsoon season from June to September is not recommended for wildlife sightings as the park is closed during this time due to heavy rainfall.
