Top 5 Animals Found in India.

Indian is the most biodiverse region and provides home to variety of wildlife animals. The subcontinent has varied regions like Western Ghats, the Eastern Himalayas, and the hilly Indo-Burma region. According to ISFR's latest reports published in 2021 7 lakh square kilometers (21.71%) of the total area is covered with forest. Whether you are visiting the grasslands or the mountains and hilly peaks, you may get to experience to see different types of animals.

From majestic Asiatic lions in the Gir National park to the Snow leopards in the Himalayas, the country hosts an incredible variety of animals species. Lets learn about some of the animals found in India.

Asiatic Lions

Asiatic lions are proud symbol of india commonly found in the Gir National park. This lions have a unique fold of skin on their stomach compared to their African counterpart. Males weigh between 160 to 190 kilogram while female weigh between 110 to 120 kilogram. Wildlife experts note that their population falls between 500 to 700 and face challenges like genetic inbreeding.

Royal Bengal Tiger

The Royal Bengal Tiger is the largest tiger species in Sundarbans. India has nearly half of the worlds tiger population. According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) current tiger population in India is estimated at 3,682 as on July 2023. These solitary hunters can weigh upto 260 kilograms. With abundance of forests cover these tigers prey on deer and wild boars. Historically, hunting and poaching lead to their population decline. Today despite various conservational efforts they still face threats from factors like deforestation.

Indian Leopard

Wearing a distinctive rosette-patterned coat, these mesmerizing subspecies is also one of the most important part of Indian wildlife. As an excellent swimmer and climbers, they are found resting on trees or carrying their prey on top of tree branches. Typically they weigh around 30 to 70 kilograms and love to feel the warm sunny climate of India.

Snow Leopard

Next on our list is the state animal of Himachal Pradesh, Snow Leopard. Living in the snowy Himalayan ranges, their thick gray coat skin helps them to blend into its icy surroundings. These cats often prey on mountain sheep and goats. Adapting to surrounding rugged life its large paws acts like snowshoes. Like other big cats, Snow Leopards cannot roar and are known for their calm nature and don't posses a threat to humans.

Clouded Leopard

Last on our big cats list is the Clouded Leopard. This wild cat inhabiting dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through Northeast India and Bhutan to mainland Southeast Asia into South China. They are named after the cloud-like patterns on its coat. With short legs and strong claws, these leopards are excellent climbers. They weigh upto 25 kilograms and primarily prey on monkeys and small mammals. The clouded leopard has been kept in zoological gardens since the early 20th century. Captive breeding programs were initiated in the 1980s. In captivity, the clouded leopard has an average lifespan of 11 years.

Endangered Species in India

India’s rich biodiversity includes several endangered animals, whose survival depends on dedicated conservation efforts:

• Blackbuck : The Blackbuck is a graceful antelope native to India’s grasslands. Once abundant, they are now near-threatened due to habitat loss and poaching. You can spot them in protected areas like Guindy National Park and Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary.

• Red Panda : Found in the eastern Himalayas, the Red Panda is as adorable as it is rare. These animals face threats from habitat destruction and poaching. Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Khangchendzonga National Park are great places to see them.

• One-Horned Rhino : The One-Horned Rhino thrives in the lush landscapes of Assam, especially in Kaziranga National Park. Despite conservation successes, they remain vulnerable due to poaching for their horns. Other places to find them include Manas National Park and Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.

• Nilgiri Tahr : This mountain goat is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and nearby regions. You can see them in Eravikulam National Park, Periyar National Park, and the Anaimalai Hills. Their population has declined due to habitat loss.

• Kashmir Red Stag (Hangul) : The Hangul is a rare deer species found in Jammu and Kashmir. Known for its striking antlers, it inhabits areas like Dachigam National Park and Sind Valley. Conservation measures are crucial to prevent its extinction.

• Indian Bison (Gaur) : The Indian Bison, the largest wild bovine, is a sight to behold. Found in South and Southeast Asia, you can see them in places like Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Arignar Anna Zoological Park. They face threats from habitat fragmentation and hunting.

FAQ People ask

What animals are found in India? India is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, Snow Leopard, and more.

Which is the rarest animal found in India? The Hangul, or Kashmir Red Stag, is one of the rarest animals found in India.

Which animal is most seen in India? The Indian Peacock and Langur monkeys are among the most commonly seen animals in India.

What is India’s native animal? The Asiatic Lion is one of the most iconic native animals of India.

What is India’s national animal? The Royal Bengal Tiger is the national animal of India.

What are 5 amazing facts about India?

• India is home to over 90,000 animal species.
• Kaziranga National Park has the world’s largest population of One-Horned Rhinos.
• India hosts all three species of leopards found worldwide.
• The Snow Leopard is native to the Himalayas.
• India’s forests support 70% of the world’s tiger population.

What is the strongest animal in India? The Indian Bison, or Gaur, is considered one of the strongest animals in India.

What is India famous for? India is famous for its rich culture, diverse wildlife, and iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal.