Beyond Tigers: 6 Exotic Animals You Can Spot In Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Wildlife lovers, this one’s for you! If you find happiness in watching animals in their natural habitat, you are probably someone who’s always on the lookout for new national parks to explore. And in India, which is rich in wildlife, there are plenty to choose from. One such gem is Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh, known not just for its wildlife but also for its lush flora. Rudyard Kipling’s famous The Jungle Book was inspired by this national park. Fascinating, right? It’s another reason to plan your visit soon. While the park’s star attraction remains the Royal Bengal Tiger, here are six other exotic animals to spot in Pench National Park. So, get your binoculars ready!

6 Exotic Animals To Spot In Pench National Park

1. Indian Wolf

Elusive and rare, Indian wolves can often be spotted in Pench National Park, though you might have better luck during dawn or dusk safaris. These endangered species are vital to India’s wildlife. Known for their cunning nature, lean build, and short, thin fur, they look dangerous, but they are quite beautiful, too.

2. Leopard

Another exotic animal you can easily spot in Pench National Park is the leopard. The park has a large leopard population, making sightings quite frequent. So, rest assured, you won’t leave without seeing one of these big cats lurking through the dense teak forests. The park’s rocky outcrops make it one of the best places in India to spot leopards. If you are really lucky, you might even spot ‘Kaala’, the rare black leopard first seen here as a cub in 2024!

Also Read: I Sighted Leopards & Stayed In A Luxury Cottage At Pench Tree Lodge In MP & It Was…

3. Indian Pangolin

One of the shyest and most elusive residents of the park, the Indian pangolin is a rare sight. These nocturnal mammals are covered in hard scales and have a long tongue. They are solitary in nature and sadly endangered, making any sighting quite special. Authorities at Pench National Park are taking dedicated conservation efforts to help increase their numbers.

4. Malabar Giant Squirrel

This striking creature is hard to miss. The Malabar giant squirrel, with its vibrant red, black, and cream-coloured coat, can often be seen leaping between trees. Spotting these agile creatures is a delight! Their speed will definitely leave you awe-struck!

Also Read: India Unveils 5 Wildlife Conservation Projects For Tigers, Dolphins, Bears & Gharials

5. Rusty-Spotted Cat

Known as one of the world’s smallest wild cats, the rusty-spotted cat can also be found here. The Pench National Park’s mixed forests and open grasslands provide the perfect environment for these exotic animals. These cats are fast, tiny, and incredibly agile, so you will need to stay alert to spot them. But trust us, seeing one in the wild is an unforgettable experience!

6. Sloth Bear

Yes, they might look adorable, but sloth bears are wild and protective of their cubs. Pench National Park is home to many of them. These exotic animals are often seen resting under the forest’s thick undergrowth or tall grass. You can even spot mothers carrying their cubs on their backs, a sight straight out of The Jungle Book!

Also Read: World Tourism Day: 5 Places To Witness The World’s Greatest Wildlife Migrations

Apart from these exotic animals, Pench National Park is also home to hyenas, otters, marsh crocodiles, Indian wild dogs, and several species of deer and birds. Remember, it’s their home and you are only a visitor, so observe respectfully. 

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ YOGESH BHANDARKAR  and Indian wolf, Wikipedia/ Rushikesh Deshmukh DOP