India is unique
in the richness and diversity of its vegetation and wildlife.
Almost 350 mammal species, over
a thousand and two hundred
species of birds in nearly 2100 forms and more than 30,000
species of insects - provide evidence to the wealthiness of
wildlife in India. Besides, there are a number of species of
fish, amphibians and reptiles. With over 4.5% its geographical
area covered by more than 75 national parks and 425 sanctuaries,
the range and diversity of India's wildlife heritage matches the
grandeur and magnificence of her civilization.
India's national
parks and wild life sanctuaries (including bird sanctuaries)
from Laddakh in Himalayas to Southern tip of TamilNadu. These
parks, reserves, sanctuaries and forests are vital to the
conservation of endangered species, such as Bengal tiger, the
Asiatic Elephant, Lion, the Snow Leopard and Siberian Crane.
India's first national park, the Corbett was established in the
foothills of Himalayas. It supports a great variety of mammals
and over 585 species of birds. The Wild Elephant population is
on the increase and both tiger and leopard are regularly seen.