Wildlife of Jharkhand
The wildlife of Jharkhand is rich and diverse, thanks to its vast forests, hilly terrains, and river systems. The state is part of the Chota Nagpur Plateau and has many protected areas, including national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
🐾 Key Wildlife Species of Jharkhand
🐅 Mammals:
- Royal Bengal Tiger (found in Palamu Tiger Reserve)
- Indian Elephant
- Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Indian Bison (Gaur)
- Spotted Deer (Chital)
- Sambar Deer
- Wild Boar
- Langur & Macaque (monkey species)
🦅 Birds:
- Peacock (National Bird)
- Parakeets
- Eagles & Kites
- Kingfisher
- Hornbills
- Woodpeckers
- Seasonal migratory birds also visit wetlands and water bodies.
🐍 Reptiles:
- Python
- Cobra
- Monitor Lizard
- Krait
- Turtles in rivers and ponds
🌳 Major National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries
- Palamu Tiger Reserve (Betla National Park)
- One of the earliest tiger reserves in India under Project Tiger.
- Rich in sal forests, waterfalls, and diverse animal life.
- Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary
- Located near Jamshedpur.
- Known for elephants, sloth bears, and scenic hills.
- Also a favorite among trekkers and nature lovers.
- Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spread across forested hills, valleys, and plateaus.
- Home to nilgai, sambar, panthers, and more.
- Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary
- India’s only dedicated wolf sanctuary.
- Located in Latehar district.
Flora of Jharkhand:
- Dominated by tropical dry deciduous forests.
- Common trees: Sal, Mahua, Bamboo, Teak, Peepal, Palash.
- Medicinal plants and herbs are also found in tribal regions.
Conservation Efforts:
- Jharkhand Forest Department manages protection.
- Eco-tourism and community forest management are growing.
- Awareness programs in schools and villages.
- Protected under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
