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South
India » Karnataka Wildlife »
 Karnataka’s
forests and wildlife are her priceless natural
heritage, it has some of the largest jungle
tracts south of the Vindhyas. From the majestic
evergreen forests of the Western Ghats to the
scrub jungles of the plains, a wide variety
of habitats teem with diverse flora and fauna,
some of them endemic to the region.Some of these
jungles were the private preserves of former
rulers. Thanks to their protection, these jungles
have survived. However, some of the lesser-known
ones are sanctuaries protected by the local
populace.
Popular wildlife destinations
in Karnataka are:
Bhimeshwari
The Bhimeshwari lies between
the twin falls of Barachukki and Gaganachukki
and the Mekedatu fall. A perfect picnic spot,
where nature is at its best. It is the natural
habitat for the Mahseer fish and is also known
as fishing destination. A variety of exciting
animals that can be found here are herds of
elephants, Deers, wild Boars, Monkeys, Jackals,
Crocodiles, Otters and even Leopards. And a
number of species of birds like Heron, Ibis,
Cormorant and Kingfisher are found here.
Ranganthittu Bird
Sanctuary
 At
Ranganthittu you will enjoy your holiday with
some glorious sights. The sanctuary is a paradise
for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a wide
variety of animals like Crocodiles, otters and
flocks of birds. Exotic birds that come all
the way from Siberia, Australia, and even North
America can be found here. You may see rare
species of birds like the white ibis, egret,
heron, patridge or even the cormorant.
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
in the Chickmagalur and Shimoga District, is
one of the best sanctuaries in Karnataka. It
is home to animals like the great Indian Gaur,
Barking Deer, Flying fox, Mongoose, Elephant,
Panther, Macaque, Babbler, Barbet, Bluejay,
Kingfisher, Robin, weaver bird and Drongo.
Biligiri Rangana Hills
Situated at a height of 5,091
ft., this resort is a must watch for wildlife
lovers. Tall trees and the natural serenity
of the hills provide home to animals like, Gaur,
Chital, Sambar, Bears, Elephants, Panthers and
Tigers.
 The
Bandipur National Park is one of the most excellent
wild-life centers. Established in 1931, by the
Mysore Maharajhas, this park is snuggled in
the foothills of the Nilgiris. This park was
chosen for the Project Tiger and since then
the Tiger population has increased. Apart from
the Tiger one can also find Peafowl, Partridges,
Quail, Hornbill, giant Squirrel, Dhole ( wild
dog), elephants, Sambar and Barking Deer. Exotic
trees like Teak, Rosewood, Honne, Mathi, Bamboo
and Sandal are found here.
Located in the Kodagu and
Mysore district, Nagarhole National Park is
a fresh, green world rich in forests, little
streams, deep valleys and flowing waterfalls.
The park derives its name from the Kannada word
' Naga' meaning Snake and ' hole' means streams.
Trees like Rosewood, teak, sandal, silver oak
are found here and the deep, fresh aroma of
these trees mingles with the sound of wildlife
of the park. The park is home to four horned
antelope, panther, warblers, hornbills, spotted
deer, moyse deer, pangolin, panther, gaur, giant
flying squirrel and many other such animals.
Kabini
Close to the Karapur forest
lies a pure tract of land calling you to explore
it. Kabini was once used as the hunting lodge
of the erstwhile Mysore Maharajahs. For the
adventurous spirits it offers steep valleys
with rich forests, spectacular pools and rapids
that provide an ideal opportunity to revive
oneself. Just feel the ferocious beauty of the
forest as you take a walk through the forest.
The fresh air and the whistling wind remains
fresh in your memories. Elephants, Leopards,
Antelopes even a tigress with her cubs can be
seen here.
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