Popular Attractions from the Fauna Family at Kaziranga
Nestled in the northeastern state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park represents the state’s rich biodiversity and conservation success. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast expanse of grasslands, wetlands, and dense forests is renowned for its diverse ecosystem that supports a wide array of flora and fauna. The national park, spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, offers a sanctuary for numerous endangered and rare species, specifically the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Its unique landscape, shaped by annual floods, fosters an environment that sustains some of the most magnificent creatures on the planet. Among the many treasures of Kaziranga, its faunal diversity is particularly striking, attracting visitors from across the country. Kaziranga is famously home to the world’s largest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, a species that has made a remarkable comeback due to dedicated conservation efforts. Apart from the rhino, Kaziranga also shelters majestic tigers, Asian elephants, swamp deer, and wild water buffalo. Additionally, the park teems with diverse bird species and smaller mammals, offering a captivating experience for wildlife admirers.
By opting for Kaziranga online safari booking, explore some of the most popular attractions from the animal kingdom that make Kaziranga a must-visit destination.
One-horned Rhinoceros – It is the most iconic species of Kaziranga National Park. Known for its thick, armour-like skin and solitary nature, this herbivore primarily feeds on grasses, aquatic plants, and fruits. Due to extensive conservation efforts, the species has been successfully revived from the brink of extinction. Despite this progress, threats such as poaching and habitat destruction persist. Visitors to Kaziranga often witness these magnificent creatures grazing in the floodplains.
Bengal Tiger – Kaziranga National Park is a designated Tiger Reserve, home to the elusive and powerful Bengal tiger. With a significant tiger density, the park offers an ideal habitat of tall grasslands and dense forests, providing ample prey like deer and wild boars. These apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance. Spotting a tiger in Kaziranga is rare due to its stealthy nature, but their presence is strongly felt through pugmarks, territorial markings, and occasional sightings during safaris.
Swamp Deer – The swamp deer, locally known as barasingha, is a striking deer species distinguished by its large, branched antlers that can have up to 12 tines. Adapted to marshy grasslands, they are primarily grazers and depend on Kaziranga’s wetlands for survival. Once on the brink of extinction, conservation measures have helped stabilize their population. These graceful herbivores are often seen in herds near water bodies, contributing to the park’s diverse herbivore population, which in turn supports predators like tigers.
Wild Buffalo – The wild buffalo, one of the largest bovines, thrives in Kaziranga’s marshy grasslands and wetlands. Known for their immense size, crescent-shaped horns, and aggressive nature, these animals are a vital part of the Kaziranga’s ecosystem. They primarily feed on grasses and aquatic vegetation, often seen wallowing in mud to escape the heat. With a declining global population due to habitat loss and hybridization with domestic buffaloes, Kaziranga remains one of the last strongholds for this endangered species.
Indian Elephant – The Indian elephant roams freely in large herds across Kaziranga’s forests and floodplains. These gentle giants, known for their intelligence and strong familial bonds, play a crucial role in shaping their habitat by dispersing seeds and creating pathways in dense vegetation. Elephants are commonly seen near water sources, where they drink and bathe. Elephants in Kaziranga are also employed for the safari purpose, where the number of tourists per elephant is strictly regulated to avoid burdening them.
Wild Boar – The wild boar is a hardy and adaptable species found throughout Kaziranga’s diverse landscapes. Recognizable by their coarse bristly fur, sharp tusks, and stocky build, these omnivores feed on a variety of food, including roots, fruits, and small animals. Wild boars are known for their aggressive and unpredictable nature, especially when defending their young. They play an essential role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil while foraging.
