The Wonders of Sundarban National Park

A Comprehensive Guide to its Unique Wildlife

Introduction to Sundarban National Park

Sundarban National Park, is located in the delta region of India and Bangladesh. Spanning over 10,000 square kilometers, it consists of a vast network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and mangrove forests. Sundarban is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including numerous rare and endangered species. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the unique wildlife that inhabits the Sundarban National Park, providing an in-depth look into its diverse ecosystem.

Royal Bengal Tigers in Sundarban National Park: The Majestic Feline

The Sundarban National Park is famous for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers (Panthera tigris tigris). Known for their powerful build, stunning coat, and exceptional swimming abilities, these tigers have adapted to living in the mangrove forests and saline water channels. They are known to have a unique characteristic – the ability to consume saline water, which is uncommon among big cats.

 

Population and Territory

The park houses approximately 100 Royal Bengal Tigers, with their territories extending into the Bangladesh part of the Sundarbans. These elusive predators have a diverse diet, feeding on various prey, such as deer, wild boar, and even fish and crabs.

Saltwater Crocodiles in Sundarban National Park:  The Formidable Reptiles

 

Sundarban is also home to the world’s largest living reptiles – the Saltwater Crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus). These fearsome predators can grow up to 23 feet in length and weigh over 1,000 kilograms. They inhabit the brackish water channels and muddy banks, feeding on a wide range of prey, including fish, birds, and mammals.

 

Sundarbans’ Avian Diversity: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The Sundarban National Park boasts a remarkable variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. With over 200 recorded bird species, the park offers a diverse range of habitats for avifauna. Some noteworthy bird species found in the park during your Sundarban tour include the:

• Black-Capped Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata)

• Brown-Winged Kingfisher (Pelargopsis amauroptera)

• Grey-Headed Lapwing (Vanellus cinereus)

• MangroveWhistler (Pachycephala cinerea)

• White-Bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster)

• Lesser Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos javanicus)

• Masked Finfoot (Heliopais personatus)

In addition to these striking bird species, migratory birds from Central Asia, Siberia, and other regions visit the park during winter, further enhancing its avian diversity.

 

Aquatic Marvels: Dolphins and Turtles

Sundarban is home to unique aquatic species, including the endangered Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica), locally known as Shushuk. These dolphins have adapted to living in the murky waters of the delta and are one of the few freshwater dolphin species in the world.

The park also serves as a nesting ground for several marine turtle species, including the Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) and the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas). These turtles lay their eggs on the sandy beaches of the delta, and their hatchlings make their way to the sea after emerging.

 

Deer and Monkeys in Sundarban National Park: Other Essential Inhabitants

 

The park is home to a variety of deer species, such as the Spotted Deer (Axis axis) and the Barking Deer (Muntiacus muntjak). These herbivorous mammals play a crucial role in the ecosystem by serving as prey for the Royal Bengal Tigers and other predators.

 

The park also provides a habitat for the Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta), a common monkey species found in the region. These intelligent primates live in social groups and can often be spotted foraging for food in the mangrove forests.

 

 

Endangered Species and Conservation Efforts

Sundarban is a sanctuary for numerous endangered and vulnerable species. The park’s conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, combating poaching, and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity. Some of the endangered species found in the park include the:

Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)

• Estuarine Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

• River Terrapin (Batagur baska)

• Indian Python (Python molurus)

Sundarban National Park is a testament to the incredible biodiversity of our planet. From the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers to the elusive Saltwater Crocodiles, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Through concerted conservation efforts and responsible Sundarban tourism, we can ensure that the unique flora and fauna of the Sundarbans continue to thrive for generations to come.