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Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Bison count in Debrigarh goes up by 129; current popn becomes 788
Bhubaneswar: Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary on Friday recorded an increase of 129 Indian bison in the summer census in just a few months, bringing their total count to 788. In the winter census, their number was 659. This time, Debrigarh, the lone sanctuary in the state with a rich bison density, recorded 60 herds, compared to 52 herds in the last census. The 788 gaurs include 315 juveniles (less than two years old) and 128 newborns (less than three months old). The juveniles constitute 40% of the total population. "Due to the increase in population, herds keep drifting, with female adults leading a herd and guiding other sub-adults and juveniles," said Anshu Pragyan Das, divisional forest officer, Debrigarh. Indian bison, or gaurs, are primary prey for carnivores in any habitat. They are particularly favoured by big cats such as Royal Bengal Tigers and leopards. Das added that mostly in the Central Indian landscape and a few other parts of India, summer marks the breeding season for Indian bisons. To determine the peak breeding season, peak calving season and further understand the population dynamics of Indian bisons, there will be a monthly survey to count the number of newborns in the population during the monsoon and winter this year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Walgreens Keeps Quiet About This '9 Pills for $7' Generic Cialis Deal Friday Plans Get Offer Undo "This will strengthen the conservation of the Schedule-1 species in this landscape as Debrigarh has exhibited a healthy density of bisons compared to other habitats in India," she said. Wildlife officials stated that bisons can migrate long distances, but in Debrigarh, they are seen to display seasonal movement ranging from five to 15km per day, keeping their territory mostly intact. In the safari zone, a total of 145 bisons are sighted in six herds. For the count, the wildlife wing engaged 73 census units with 147 members. They conducted a three-day direct counting from 6 am to 6 pm. As many as 122 camera traps and 130 pug impression pads were used for the census. The Debrigarh bison is mostly seen along the shoreline of the Hirakud reservoir bordering the sanctuary. An adult gaur weighs up to 1500 kg, officials said. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
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India.com
28-05-2025
- India.com
Planning A Wildlife Safari? Visit THESE 10 Indian National Parks Before Monsoon Begins
photoDetails english 2907314 Updated:May 28, 2025, 12:55 PM IST 1 / 12 As the monsoon season approaches, nature transforms into a lush paradise, making it the perfect time to explore the great outdoors. National parks across the country come alive with vibrant greenery, blooming flowers, and a symphony of wildlife activity. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle of city life, visiting these 10 national parks ahead of the monsoons offers a unique experience. Prepare for breathtaking landscapes, refreshing rain showers, and the chance to witness nature at its most beautiful. Let's dive into our top picks for national parks that promise unforgettable adventures this monsoon season. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand 2 / 12 India's first national park is a paradise for tiger lovers and birdwatchers, with its dense forests, riverbanks, and varied terrains providing perfect opportunities for safaris and nature photography. The best time to visit is from March to mid-June. Highlights include sightings of Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, and gharials, while the Dhikala zone offers excellent chances for overnight stays and optimal wildlife viewing. Additionally, the park is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a haven for ornithologists. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan 3 / 12 Ranthambore offers a dramatic mix of wildlife and historical ruins, with the dry summer landscape from April to early June making it easier to spot animals congregating around waterholes. The park is famous for its tigers that roam among ancient forts, and it is also home to sloth bears, hyenas, and leopards, making it an ideal destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh 4 / 12 Bandhavgarh, a wildlife lover's dream, boasts one of the highest tiger densities in India, with frequent tiger sightings from March to May. The park's mystical charm is further enhanced by ancient caves and the ruins of Bandhavgarh Fort, while a rich bird and butterfly population adds to its diverse wildlife. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh 5 / 12 Known for its expansive meadows and sal forests, Kanha is the sole habitat for the endangered hard-ground barasingha. The best time to visit is from March to June, where highlights include sightings of tigers, leopards, and barasinghas during scenic jungle safaris. This park is also notable as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book." Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra 6 / 12 Pench is a lesser-known gem, featuring teak forests and flowing rivers that create an ideal setting for peaceful yet exciting safaris. The best time to visit is from February to May, where highlights include sightings of tigers, leopards, and wild dogs amidst beautiful river landscapes and hilly terrain, making it a true birdwatching paradise. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra 7 / 12 Tadoba is renowned for regular tiger sightings, particularly from March to May, as the big cats often lounge near waterholes in the dry forest landscape. During this period, visitors have a high chance of spotting tigers, and can also enjoy the benefit of fewer tourist crowds. The park is additionally home to sloth bears and wild boars. Kaziranga National Park, Assam 8 / 12 Before the Brahmaputra floods the region, from February to early May, Kaziranga stands as the premier destination for spotting one-horned rhinoceroses in their natural habitat. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers both elephant and jeep safaris, allowing visitors to witness not only rhinos but also elephants and wild buffaloes. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal 9 / 12 The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, is home to unique swimming tigers and estuarine crocodiles. The best time to explore this mysterious UNESCO World Heritage Site is from November to May, before the monsoon season makes boat safaris risky. During this period, visitors can enjoy a unique boat safari experience and spot Royal Bengal Tigers, crocodiles, and mudskippers. Satpura National Park, Madhya Pradesh 10 / 12 Satpura is known for offering a more intimate and less commercialized wildlife experience, with unique walking safaris and canoe rides. The best time to visit is from March to June, allowing visitors to enjoy highlights such as sightings of sloth bears, leopards, and Indian bison, along with rare walking safaris. The park also boasts the scenic Denwa River and intriguing rock shelters. Nagarhole National Park, Karnataka 11 / 12 Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Nagarhole is characterized by its dense forests and streams, making it one of India's best leopard habitats. The ideal time to visit is from April to early June, when highlights include sightings of elephants, leopards, and wild dogs, along with boat safaris on the Kabini River amidst a lush landscape supported by excellent safari infrastructure. 12 / 12 Visiting national parks during the monsoon not only allows you to witness nature's splendor but also provides a chance to connect with the environment in a fresh and invigorating way. While the rain may bring challenges, it also enhances the beauty of these parks, making them more vibrant and alive. From the serene landscapes to the diverse wildlife, each park offers a unique experience that is worth exploring. So pack your bags, embrace the monsoon magic, and embark on an unforgettable journey to these stunning natural reserves. Remember to check weather conditions and park guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.


India.com
27-05-2025
- India.com
Discover The 5 Ultimate Wildlife Safari Experiences Near Kolkata
The Indian city of Kolkata functions as the cultural epicenter which offers visitors vibrant festivals while serving its famous delectable dishes among its-rich heritage sites. The thriving city has an unexpected secret since it leads visitors toward outstanding wildlife safari opportunities. Travelers reaching the city by car can step into wild forests while encountering unique species of wildlife during their journey back to nature. The following guide presents an all-inclusive description of the best wildlife safari destination accessible from Kolkata. 1. Sundarbans National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site The Sundarbans stands as a globally renowned wildlife destination which exists about 100 kilometers south of Kolkata. The mangrove forest extends from India into Bangladesh where Majestic Royal Bengal Tigers make their home. The Indian sector of Sundarbans consists of 10,000 square kilometers which UNESCO has designated as a World Heritage Site and operates as a protected tiger reserve. A boat safari system allows visitors to explore the intricate river and creek system where they can find saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, Royal Bengal Tigers and 260 different bird species along with numerous others. This park displays a variety of plant species alongside mangrove trees that survive in saline water conditions. Tourists should plan their visit to Jaldapara during November through February to experience fair weather and increased opportunities to observe wildlife. 2. Jaldapara National Park: Home to the One-Horned Rhinoceros The northern sections of West Bengal contain Jaldapara National Park and it takes 5-6 hours to reach from Kolkata by car. The Indian one-horned rhinoceros exists in large numbers at this park because it stands as an endangered species. The 216 square kilometer area of Jaldapara contains many bird species along with its elephant wilds and its leopard inhabitants along with bison populations. Visitors choose jeep safaris alongside elephant rides to traverse through Jaldapara National Park. The first early morning drive proves most beneficial for wildlife observation given the heightened animal movement at this time. Research shows that the combination of grasslands with dense forests generates an attractive wildlife scenery which draws enthusiast visitors to the park. 3. Gorumara National Park: A Hidden Gem Gorumara National Park exists within the Dooars region of West Bengal as a hidden treasure located about 70 km from Jaldapara. Gorumara National Park stands out as a significant wildlife reserve with many Indian rhinoceroses although it keeps a moderate size. The 80 square kilometer park contains watchtowers which let visitors observe breathtaking sights across the region. Tourists who explore the Gorumara National Park can take jeep safaris while guides lead them through wildlife observation areas filled with elephants, sambar deer, barking deer, and many different bird species. Visitors must not miss the chance to observe birds at this location as the great hornbill and Asian paradise flycatcher stand out among others. 4. Buxa Tiger Reserve: Off the Beaten Path Buxa Tiger Reserve stands out as an ideal destination for people desiring private encounters with nature. Buxa resides about six to seven hours away from Kolkata near the Bhutan border and belongs to the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot. The reserve contains rare animals such as the tiger together with elephants, leopards, clouded leopards and numerous primate species yet actual tiger sightings remain elusive. Visitors can use hiking paths inside the reserve to discover its natural forest areas and peaceful environmental areas. The sanctuary allows birdwatchers to identify the chestnut-breasted partridge among other unique bird species which includes the black-tailed crake. Travelers who want an uncommercialized safari with peaceful surroundings will find Buxa to be their ideal destination. 5. Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary: An Urban Escape The Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary near Kolkata within South 24 Parganas district enables people to experience nature in a quick trip. As a sanctuary covering only 28 acres this small refuge provides perfect conditions for birdwatching enthusiasts. During winter months the sanctuary serves as a home to more than 100 bird species and their population includes kingfishers, woodpeckers and owls and migratory birds. The sanctuary welcomes jackals and civets together with reptiles and amphibians among its resident wildlife. The sanctuary's tight dimensions match perfectly with day-trip purposes from Kolkata thus giving visitors the opportunity to hike through scenic green landscapes. Final Thoughts Several unique wildlife exploration and biodiversity appreciation opportunities exist throughout the regions surrounding Kolkata for wildlife enthusiasts. These tourist destinations in India include both the renowned Sundarbans and the peaceful Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary. People who visit these safari destinations have the chance to observe Royal Bengal Tigers and appreciate the beauty of migratory birds while enjoying educational and thrilling encounters. Respecting the intricate nature balance while practicing ecotourism will secure future generations' access to admire natural wonders. You can embark on your best wildlife safari experience near Kolkata while carrying your binoculars with your camera and your wonderment for nature.