Wildlife in Karnataka

Harboring more than 40-50% of the wildlife of the planet, the Western Ghats of Karnataka are ranked amongst the most complex and diverse biomass of the earth. Occupying a mere 7% of the earth's area these ghats are amongst the world's top twelve bio-diversity regions. Including rich tropical rain forests, these are the treasure houses of a wide array of unique species of flora and fauna. With these ghats being internationally recognized as one of the hot spots of bio diversity, Karnataka also has the richest ecological areas declared as wildlife sanctuaries.

Receptor of heavy rainfall, Coatal Karnataka and the Western Ghats give shelter to a number of birds, wild animals and reptiles. With endless perennial rivers, Karnataka is home to around 200 species of birds, including the racket tailed drongo, the crested serpent eagle and several animal species including the tiger, elephant, panther, langur, sambar, sloth bear, bison, wild boar and barking deer etc.

Though gifted with incredible natural beauty in the form of splendid beaches and gently rolling hills, the state of Karnataka is also threatened by the rapid development. In order to preserve its natural vegetation and animal life, many resource rich tracts of land nestled in the forest areas of the Western Ghats have been converted into wild-life sanctuaries.

Some of the major sanctuaries in Karnataka are The Bandipur National Park, B R hills Sanctuary, Cauvery Fishing Camp, Bannerghatta National Park, Kokkrebelur Pelicanry, Gudav Bird Sanctuary, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Anshi National park, Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuduremukh National Park and the Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary.

With the most splendid and picturesque landscapes of lush tropical vegetation, these sanctuaries are inhabited by elephants, monkeys, jackals, wild boar, peacocks, a variety of deer and snake species, in addition to roaming herds of Indian Bison. A quick drive through the sanctuary can enable you to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

All these sanctuaries have a zoo and a botanical garden. With a very few roads, these reserves can only be reached by the help of trained guides or locals. These reserves of natural beauty are dotted by quaint villages on little hamlets. Home to some very unusual varieties of flora and fauna, these wildlife reserves have been by-passed by the rush of modernization and expansion.

With a less frequent public transportation, these parks can be best enjoyed through a hired vehicle. Open from 9:30am to 5:30pm, these reserves also offer an overnight stay facility with a prior permission of the forest officer. Expert guides can also be hired who can be helpful in locating various animal and plant species.