When we think of wildlife safaris, we often imagine spotting tigers or leopards in the wild. But not everyone gets that lucky, right? What we usually see are wild boars, spotted deer, or even barasinghas. These animals might not sound exciting at first, but spotting them is considered equally lucky. One such species is the Indian wild dog— let’s find out what makes them special, and the top five places you can spot Indian wild dogs in India.
What Makes Indian Wild Dogs Special?
Indian wild dogs are also known as Dhole. They are closely related to domestic dogs, wolves, and foxes. These animals have a lean build, bushy tails, and reddish-brown fur. Though they have a medium-sized build and look adorable in appearance, don’t be fooled; they are highly intelligent.
What makes them even more unique is their communication style. Dholes use high-pitched whistles and yelps to communicate with their pack members. They are social and known for their strong bond with their pack. Together, they hunt for chital, sambar, wild boars, and other medium-sized animals that make up most of their diet.
Sadly, the Indian wild dog is an endangered species. Their population has dropped due to habitat loss (deforestation) and human-wildlife conflict. These wild dogs are now listed as ‘Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List, with less than 2,500 left in the wild. Let’s hope ongoing conservation efforts help restore their population soon. If these species excite you and you would love to see them roaming free, here are five places in India where you can still spot Indian wild dogs.
5 Places To Spot Dhole In India
Here are the five best places where you can see these Indian wild dogs roaming, lazing around and hunting with their pack members in India:
1. Pench National Park
Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh isn’t just home to tigers and other exotic animals. You can spot Dholes here, too. Sightings are quite common in the park’s core area. Since they are endangered, spotting one is as thrilling as seeing a tiger in the wild. You can even see them moving around in packs!
2. Nagarhole National Park
When talking about the best places to see Indian wild dogs, Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka can’t be missed. It’s one of the most significant habitats for Dholes. You might see them hunting, resting, or watching you from behind the bushes. Along with Dholes, the park is also home to Asiatic elephants, leopards, tigers, and many species of birds.
3. Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh is another haven for wildlife lovers. The jungle, home to tigers, barasinghas, leopards, and sloth bears, also shelters Indian wild dogs. Their striking red coat and bushy tails make them easier to spot amidst the dense trees.
4. Bandipur National Park
Bandipur National Park in Karnataka is another great spot to see these charismatic and intelligent Indian wild dogs. Stay quiet and alert! Listening to their distinct whistling calls amid the jungle silence is a thrilling experience. If you are lucky, you might even get to see a pack on their daily hunt.
5. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve
Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of the best places in India to spot not just tigers but a range of wildlife in their natural habitat. The park’s ‘Big 5’ includes tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, and Indian wild dogs. You can also spot hyenas and numerous bird species here.
Also Read: In Search Of Love: Male Tiger Swims From Maharashtra To Telangana To Look For A Mate
So, if Indian wild dogs spark your curiosity, make sure you bookmark these parks right now! Seeing these rare and intelligent wild dogs is a wildlife experience you will never forget!
Cover Image Courtesy: Freepik/ vladimircech
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