Kanha National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park is a sanctuary for various wildlife species and a treasure trove of diverse flora. From towering trees to delicate shrubs and colorful wildflowers, Kanha's flora adds to the enchanting charm of this natural paradise.
About Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park spans an expansive area encompassing dense forests, open grasslands, and meandering rivers. This diverse topography provides a perfect habitat for many plant species, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem. The park is characterized by its mixed deciduous forests, dominated by Sal trees (Shorea robusta) and Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus).
Fauna
Mammals: Kanha National Park boasts a diverse range of mammal species, including the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, leopard, bison, gaur, sambhar, chital, barasingha, barking deer, black deer, black buck, chousingha, nilgai, mouse deer, sloth bear, porcupine, hyena, jackal, fox, jungle cat, hare, monkey, mongoose, langur, wild pig, wild boar, badger, wild dog, Indian hare, and mouse deer.
Reptiles: The park is also home to various reptile species, such as the Python, Indian monitor, Russell's viper, fan-throated lizard, Indian garden lizard, rat snake, Indian krait, Indian cobra, and common skink.
Birds: Kanha National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering a rich avian diversity. Visitors can spot an array of bird species, including the resplendent peafowl, stork, teal, pintail, heron, egret, peacock, jungle fowl, rock pigeon, green pigeon, partridge, spur fowl, quail, ring doves, spotted parakeet, cuckoo, papiha, rollers, bee-eaters, hoopoes, drongos, warblers, kingfisher, woodpecker, finches, orioles, owls, flycatcher, eagle, kite, vulture, and nightjar.
Additionally, the park is home to exotic bird species like the Asian paradise flycatcher, spangled drongo, white-rumped shama, white-bellied drongo, racket-tailed drongo, jungle babbler, tawny babbler, common iora, Eurasian blackbird, painted francolin, Indian scimitar babbler, grey francolin, black-naped flycatcher, golden oriole, Malabar pied hornbill, spotted owl, crested serpent eagle, brown fish owl, and white-eyed and Oriental honey buzzard.
Flora
However, the flora of Kanha extends far beyond these iconic species.
The Fruit Trees of Chitvan:
Chitvan, a region within Kanha National Park, is particularly known for its abundance of fruit-bearing trees. Trees such as Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) and Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica) are abundant here. These fruit trees not only provide a source of food for the wildlife but also attract a diverse range of bird species, creating a vibrant avian ecosystem.
Medicinal Trees in Kanha National Park:
Kanha is also home to several medicinal trees used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. One such tree is the Indian kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), known for its therapeutic properties. The bark of this tree is used to treat various ailments, including diabetes and inflammation. These medicinal trees' presence highlights Kanha's ecological importance, where nature's pharmacy thrives.
Common Trees in Kanha National Park:
Kanha is home to various other tree species besides the dominant Sal and Bamboo. The Flame of the Forest (Butea monosperma) with its fiery red flowers, the Indian Ghost Tree (Kullu) (Sterculia urens) with its unique appearance, and the Indian Butter Tree (Dhaura) (Butea monosperma) with its vibrant yellow blooms are just a few examples of the diverse range of trees that can be found in the park.
Shrubs Found in Kanha National Park:
Shrubs are crucial in the ecosystem, providing cover and food for various animal species. In Kanha, shrubs such as Lantana (Lantana camara), Indian Rock Fig (Ficus hispida), and Indian Barberry (Berberis aristata) are commonly found. These shrubs add to the park's aesthetic appeal and support a myriad of life forms.
Herbs Found in Kanha National Park:
The forest floor of Kanha is adorned with a carpet of herbs and wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape. Herbs such as Indian borage (Plectranthus amboinicus), Indian Pennywort (Centella asiatica), and Indian heliotrope (Heliotropium indicum) thrive in the park's favorable conditions. These herbs have various medicinal properties and are often used in traditional medicine.