Wildlife of Rajasthan

Wildlife of Rajasthan - The state of Rajasthan conjures up images of the desert, sand, palaces, camels, folk dances, vibrant folk music and dances, handlooms and handicrafts. Rajasthan is rich in traditions, culture, history and wildlife as well. The state is endowed with excellent wildlife and has many wildlife sanctuaries. The environment is protected by life; the Bishnois of Rajasthan are world renowned for their sacrifices made for the environment’s sake. About 350 Bishnois laid down their lives for conserving trees and nature. A cenotaph is erected in their memory at Khejrli near Jodhpur and is a testimony for the fight for conservation.

It is due to such rich traditions that the nature and forests have been preserved in the best manner. The princely rulers and the locals have contributed to maintenance of forest tracts, jungles and hunting preserves. The varied flora and fauna have been conserved excellently.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and Ranthambore Tiger Reserve are the most famous and popular tourist attractions in the world. Rajasthan also has the Sariska Tiger Reserve and Desert National Park as two important wilderness areas. Bharatpur is house to many local species of birds as well as the migratory birds. It is a popular live laboratory for ornithologists from all over the world.

Rajasthan has rich and prominent biodiversity with many exotic and endangered species of plant and wildlife like the water lilies, lotuses, peafowl, tree pie, peacocks, black buck, dung beetles, looper caterpillar, cobras, vipers, neelgais and wild ass to name a few of the great variety of the rich natural heritage. Rajasthan also has the wildlife sanctuaries of Bhensrod Garh, Darrah Sanctuary, Jaisamand Sanctuary, Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary and Mount Abu Sanctuary.