Sundarbans National Park is a place to witness the wildlife beauty. Recognised as a UNESCO Heritage site and the world’s largest tidal wave forest, it is located across the southern part of West Bengal and stretches to Bangladesh. The place is surrounded by natural beauty, including a river and mangroves. This park is home to some of the most endangered animals in the world. For those who love exploring some of the unique and hard-to-see animals, Sundarbans National Park might feel like a heaven.
10 Animals To Spot At Sundarbans National Park
Here’s the list of 10 animals you will spot at one of the famous national parks, the Sundarbans. Check it out!
1. Saltwater Crocodile
The largest living reptile on earth, the saltwater crocodile is known to be a strong, quick and dangerous hunter. They can easily take down fish, deer or livestock known as domestic animals. These living reptiles are found in the muddy banks and estuaries of the Sundarbans. Though they are dangerous, they play a crucial role in balancing aquatic populations.
2. Olive Ridley Turtle
The olive ridley turtle is famous for coming to India’s coasts in very large groups, especially in Odisha. However, in the Sunderbans, they are not spotted in large numbers. These turtles are at risk of extinction because people hunt them, and they often get trapped in fishing nets. Also, their nesting grounds are disappearing, and to protect them, authorities are constantly making efforts, reported Outlook India.
3. Fishing Cat
This medium-sized cat is adapted to wetland life. They are known to be expert swimmers and hunters, thanks to their partly webbed feet, strong bodies, and love for water. Their hunting list includes fish, crabs, and other small aquatic animals. The fishing cat is hardly seen but manages to survive in the Sundarbans National Park.
4. Bengal Slow Loris
The Bengal Slow Loris is one of the most venomous mammals on Earth. They have a great vision that helps them easily spot their prey in the middle of the night. Sadly, these animals are now endangered because of deforestation and illegal wildlife trade. Since they survive in the Sundarbans National Park, it’s crucial to protect this place.
5. Mangrove Horseshoe Crab
The mangrove horseshoe crab is one of the most fascinating creatures in the Sundarbans. These species have existed for more than 300 million years and still look almost the same, earning them the name, ‘living fossils.’ With a large tail and a huge shell on their head, they appear intimidating, but are harmless to humans. These wildlife species are unique because of their blue blood.
6. Water Monitor Lizard
With a height of up to 7 metres, the water monitor lizards are one of the largest lizards in Asia. These lizards can move freely in water and on land. They often rely on fish, birds, small mammals and eggs to satisfy their hunger. If you’re visiting Sundarbans National Park, you can spot these animals at banks or swimming gracefully through the mangrove water.
7. Irrawaddy Dolphin
These dolphins look different without the long beak of other dolphins. In the national park, they live in estuaries and coastal waters and are known for their friendly appearance. Unfortunately, they are considered endangered due to pollution, habitat destruction, and getting caught in fishing nets.
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8. Northern River Terrapin
One of the rarest and most endangered freshwater turtles is the northern river terrapin. They managed to survive only in a few locations, like the Sundarbans. Many conservation efforts are being carried out to protect them. The intriguing part of these animals is that they are shy.
9. Royal Bengal Tiger
Sundarbans National Park is home to the royal Bengal tiger. These tigers are different from other types of tigers because of their excellent swimming skills. In search of prey or new territory to mar, they often cross rivers and water channels. Spotting these tigers is hard enough to be considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience for tourists.
10. Gangetic River Dolphin
The Gangetic River Dolphin is India’s national aquatic animal. These dolphins don’t have vision and are believed to rely on echolocation to navigate and spot food in murky waters. Sadly, they are not spotted as frequently as before because of threats like pollution, dam construction, and overfishing. The Sundarbans remains one of its last strongholds, keeping hope alive for this endangered species.
Sundarbans National Park is home to many endangered animals. These animals have adapted to the park’s unique environment and continue to survive here. To increase their population, many conservation efforts are also being made.
Have you visited this national park? Share your experience in the comment section!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Soumyajit Nandy