True Vipers Of India: The Three Viperine Snakes Of The Country

A Russell's viper. Image credit: Davidvraju, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

India’s vipers are often discussed as a single group, but the country’s viper fauna has two distinct evolutionary lineages. The larger and more diverse group is the pit vipers, or Crotalinae, which include bamboo, Malabar, and Himalayan pit vipers. The other is the Viperinae, or true vipers. In India, the latter is represented by three species: the Russell’s viper, the Indian saw-scaled viper, and the Levantine viper. The current Checklist of Snakes of India places all three in the subfamily Viperinae.

What Is A True Viper?

The term “true viper” refers to members of the subfamily Viperinae, within the family Viperidae. They are distinct from India’s pit vipers, which belong to Crotalinae. Both groups possess the characteristic long, hinged venom fangs associated with vipers, but pit vipers have an additional sensory structure: the loreal pit, a heat-sensitive organ between the eye and nostril. True vipers do not have these facial heat-sensing pits.

Russell’s Viper

Scientific name: Daboia russelii

A Russell's viper. Image credit: Prabhmeet Singh, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Among India’s vipers, the Russell’s viper is one of the most familiar. It is a medically important species that is among the “Big Four” of India, responsible for the highest number of snakebite-related deaths in the country.

It has a heavy body, and the dorsal pattern usually consists of three rows of large, dark-edged oval or rounded markings. The pattern can be striking when the snake is exposed, but it also provides effective camouflage among dry vegetation, soil, and leaf litter.

The Russell’s viper occurs across large parts of the Indian subcontinent and is associated with a variety of habitats, including human-modified ones.

Saw-scaled Viper

Scientific name: Echis carinatus

A saw-scaled viper. Image credit: Dr. Raju Kasambe, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

This species is considerably smaller than the Russell’s viper, but its reputation in India is not based on size. It is adapted to relatively dry environments and can occur in deserts, semi-arid landscapes, rocky areas, scrub, and other open habitats. The rough, strongly keeled scales are one of its recognizable features. When threatened, the snake may rub sections of its body together, producing the characteristic rasping or “sawing” sound from which its common name is derived. It feeds on small vertebrates and other prey and is part of the food web of India’s drier ecosystems.

It is also among the “Big Four” species of India because of its historical importance in snakebite epidemiology.

Levantine Viper

Scientific name: Macrovipera lebetina

A Levantine viper. Image credit: Rashid Baradaran, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

This species is the least widespread of India’s three true vipers. The current ZSI checklist records the Levantine viper from the western Himalayas.

The species is considerably less frequently encountered than the other two on the list in India. Historical records and published accounts place it in the mountainous and rocky landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. Its broader range extends from the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East through Central and South Asia.

Its broader range extends from the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East through Central and South Asia. The Indian population therefore, represents the eastern portion of a much larger distribution.

Kraits of India: The Nine Species That Share A Country

Banded krait. Image credit: Arup2602, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

A krait can be lying beside a bed in a village home, moving through the rice field of a farmer, or crossing a road after dark without drawing much attention. These snakes are mostly nocturnal, generally secretive, and often encountered only briefly. Though a vital part of the ecosystem, these snakes also possess venom potent enough to kill a human being quite easily. So, while protecting them is important, safeguarding oneself from a krait is also equally needed. In India, “krait” refers to a group of closely related species in the genus Bungarus, and distinguishing them is considerably complicated.

India is currently home to nine recognised species of Bungarus whose ranges stretch from the Himalayas through the plains and plateaus of northern and central India to the Andaman Islands. Recent records and taxonomic work have also shown that the country’s krait diversity is still being refined.

• Andaman krait (Bungarus andamanesis)
• Northeastern hill krait (Bungarus bungaroides)
• Common krait (Bungarus caeruleus)
• Banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus)
• Lesser black krait (Bungarus lividus)
• Greater black krait (Bungarus niger)
• Sing krait (Bungarus sindanus)
• Suzhen’s krait (Bungarus suzhenae)
• Wall’s krait (Bungarus walli)

What Makes A Krait A Krait?

Kraits belong to the Elapidae family, the same broad snake family that includes cobras and coral snakes. Members of Bungarus are venomous and predominantly nocturnal. Many are ophiophagous, meaning that snakes form an important part of their diet, although their prey varies among species.

One feature that gives kraits their characteristic appearance is the enlarged vertebral row of scales running along the centre of the back. The subcaudal scales are also generally undivided, another useful character when distinguishing Bungarus from other Indian elapids.

But the familiar black body crossed by pale bands should not be treated as a complete identification guide. Several species are dark and banded, and closely related species can geographically overlap. Even the number, width, arrangement, and colour of bands can vary.

Common krait (Bungarus caeruleus)

A common krait. Image credit: Davidvraju via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The common krait is the species most people associate with the word “krait.” It also belongs to the “Big Four” venomous snakes, a group responsible for most snake-bite-related deaths in the country. It is distributed throughout large parts of mainland India and beyond, into neighboring parts of South Asia. It is usually dark blue-black, black, or bluish-black, with narrow whitish bands. In some individuals, the bands can be faint, incomplete, or difficult to see.

Banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus)

A banded krait. Image credit: Davidvraju via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).

The banded krait is the easiest krait to recognise. Broad yellow or golden bands alternate with black across the body, producing a striking pattern that is very different from the relatively narrow banding of the common krait.

The species occurs across parts of eastern, northeastern, and central India and continues through much of mainland Southeast Asia. It is found across a wide variety of habitats.

Northeastern hill krait (Bungarus bungaroides)

A Northeastern hill krait. Animish Mandrekar via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0).

Found in India’s northeastern hills and adjoining Himalayan landscapes, it is associated with relatively elevated, humid environments. It is much less frequently encountered compared to the common krait. It looks quite similar to the common krait with black body and narrow, white bands.

The Northeastern Hill Krait belongs to the krait fauna of India's northeastern hills and adjoining Himalayan landscapes. It is associated with relatively elevated, humid environments and has been recorded from parts of northeastern India.

Lesser black krait (Bungarus lividus)

A lesser black krait. Image credit: Sp.herp, CC BY-SA 3.0  via Wikimedia Commons .

This lesser-known species is primarily found in northeastern India, with records also extending into northern West Bengal. It is also found outside India in Nepal and Bangladesh. Its dark appearance can make it easy to mistake it for other black kraits, particularly the greater black krait.

Greater black krait (Bungarus niger)

The greater black krait was originally described from the Darjeeling region of West Bengal and is now known from parts of northeastern and eastern India. It is also found in the adjacent countries of Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. It closely resembles the lesser black krait. However, measurable differences include the form of vertebral scales, numbers of ventrals and subcaudals, and overall body size.

The Sind Krait: Bungarus sindanus

A Sind krait. Image credit: Sp.herp, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

This species is found in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. In India, it is found in arid and semi-arid landscapes, including parts of Rajasthan and adjoining regions. It is generally dark, with pale bands across the body, and can resemble other banded kraits.  

Wall's Krait: Bungarus walli

Wall’s krait was originally described by Frank Wall from Faizabad in present-day Uttar Pradesh. It has been recorded in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, and Assam. Also found in neighboring countries of Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

Suzhen’s krait (Bungarus suzhenae)

A Suzhen's krait. Image credit: Chen Z-N, Shi S-C, Vogel G, Ding L, Shi J-S (2021), CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

It is one of the newest additions to India's krait list. The species was first described from China in 2021 and then in Myanmar. In 2024, it was found for the first time from the northeast Indian Nagaland-Manipur area.

Andaman krait (Bungarus andamanesis)

An Andaman krait. Image credit: Coryphophylax CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

It is the geographical outlier among India’s kraits. Unlike the mainland species, it is restricted to the Andaman Islands. The species was described in 1978 from the Andaman Islands, with the type locality associated with Port Blair on South Andaman Island. It is a Near Threatened species due to its restricted distribution.

Kraits And Snakebite In India

A common krait crossing the road. Image credit: Dr. Raju Kasambe, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Kraits are ecologically important predators, but they are also responsible for serious snakebite envenoming. The common krait is one of the country’s medically important snakes. Its nocturnal behaviour creates a particular risk in rural and peri-urban environments, where people may encounter snakes while sleeping on floors or moving around at night.

Krait venom is dominated by neurotoxic components that interfere with the nervous system functioning. Severe envenoming can lead to progressive paralysis and respiratory failure.

Another difficulty is that the bite itself may not initially look dramatic. A person may have little swelling or obvious tissue injury and therefore underestimate the seriousness of the incident.

Suspected krait envenoming is a medical emergency. A snake should never be caught or handled in an attempt to confirm its identity. The priority is rapid transport to appropriate medical care.

A Problem That Extends Beyond The “Big Four”

India’s focus on the four traditionally recognised major snakebite species has been important for public health, but it can also obscure the country’s broader venomous snake diversity.

Not every medically important krait belongs to the common krait. Other Bungarus species occur in regions where their biology, distribution, and venom compositions are less thoroughly studied.

Research has already shown that venom profiles can vary among closely related kraits. A major study of cryptic kraits in western and southern India found substantial differences in venom composition among lineages and raised concerns about the ability of existing antivenom to provide uniform protection against geographically and genetically divergent krait venoms.

This is one reason why taxonomy is not merely an academic exercise. Knowing which species occur where can directly affect venom research, snakebite treatment, and public health planning.

Protecting India's Kraits

Kraits are predators, and their ecological role is easy to overlook because most of their activity happens at night.

Their diet includes other snakes and, depending on species, other small vertebrates. In agricultural landscapes, their presence is part of a much larger food web linking rodents, frogs, reptiles, and other animals.

They also face a familiar set of threats. Habitat conversion, road mortality, and fear-driven persecution can affect snake populations. For species with small or fragmented distributions, such pressures can be especially important.

India’s current legal framework provides protection to the recognised Indian Bungarus species. The Zoological Survey of India’s 2025 Fauna of India checklist places all nine recognised Indian kraits in Schedule II of the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022.

Their IUCN assessments vary. Several are listed as Least Concern. The Andaman krait is listed as Near Threatened, and the Suzhen’s krait remains Not Evaluated.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Tamil Nadu And Where To See Them

Tamil Nadu, like other states with the Western Ghats, is home to great biodiversity, including several endemic species. Here are the seven most iconic wild animals found in this southern state.

Nilgiri Tahr

Nilgiri Tahr. Image credit: Asheen Anoopvia Wikimedia Commons.

Tamil Nadu’s state animal, the Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius), is an Endangered species, endemic to the southern Western Ghats region in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is a wild goat species found on high elevation cliffs, rocky outcrops, open plateaus covered by grasslands, etc. The Nilgiri tahr is exclusively herbivorous, feeding on grasses and shrubs. It is an extremely agile climber with good eyesight to detect predators or other threats in its surroundings. The species is threatened by habitat loss and poaching. The tahr is losing its habitat to development, livestock grazing, and the spread of invasive plants. These animals can be observed in the higher reaches of the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu.

Emerald Dove

Emerald dove. Image credit: Jason Thompson via Wikimedia Commons.

The state bird of Tamil Nadu, the grey-capped emerald dove (Chalcophaps indica), is a beautiful bird with bright emerald-green wings and back. The species is found in tropical forests across South and Southeast Asia. The bird feeds on the fruits and seeds of plants, usually those that have fallen to the forest floor. It spends less time on trees except when roosting. It is a Least Concern species but suffers from habitat loss due to deforestation. It can be spotted across the forests of Tamil Nadu, including the Mudumalai and Anaimalai Tiger Reserves.

Tamil Yeoman

Tamil yeoman butterfly. Image credit: BrijeshPookkottur via Wikimedia Commons.

The beautiful Tamil Yeoman (Cirrochroa thais) is the state butterfly of Tamil Nadu. Locally, it is called Tamil Maravan, meaning Tamilian Warrior. This species is endemic to the Western Ghats, where it occurs in the moist evergreen forests on the mountains. It is around 60-75 mm in size and bright orange on the upper surface and brownish on the lower surface. The butterfly can be spotted while hiking or trekking on the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu.

Nilgiri Langur

Image credit: Ashwinsekaran via Wikimedia Commons.

This primate species (Semnopithecus johnii) is endemic to the Western Ghats and is a threatened species (listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List). It lives in the region's evergreen and deciduous forests at altitudes ranging from 300 to 2,000 m. It is primarily folivorous but also feeds on other plant parts and insects, etc. The Nilgiri langur is primarily arboreal and diurnal, living in social groups of 9 to 10 animals. Poaching was a major threat to species in the past, as their body parts were utilised in traditional medicine preparations. While education and awareness programs have largely helped curb this threat, the langur suffers from habitat loss due to human disturbances. It can be spotted in the protected areas of the Nilgiri Hills.

Malabar Parakeet

A beautiful Malabar parakeet. Image credit: Shantanu Kuveskar via Wikimedia Commons.

This gorgeous bird is endemic to the Western Ghats. The Malabar parakeet, also called the blue-winged parakeet (Psittacula columboides), lives in small flocks that sometimes fly across forest clearings, making screeching calls. These birds nest in tree hollows left by woodpeckers or barbets. The species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. It can be seen across the Nilgiris flying across forested landscapes in the region.

Nilgiri Marten

Two Nilgiri martens in their natural habitat. Image credit: Navaneeth Kishor via Wikimedia Commons.

A threatened species, listed as Vulnerable, the Nilgiri marten (Martes gwatkinsii) is endemic to the Western Ghats. It occurs in evergreen montane forests and occasionally in deciduous forests as well as commercial plantations near forested landscapes. It is an efficient predator, feeding on a variety of small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, and more. It also feeds on plant parts, making it an omnivore. The species is threatened by habitat loss and persecution by honey farmers when caught ravaging the contents of bee boxes to feed on honey bee larvae. Nilgiri martens have been observed in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

Cochin Forest Cane Turtle

Cochin forest cane turtle. Image credit: Davidvraju via Wikimedia Commons.

Also known as the Kavalai forest turtle (Vijayachelys silvatica), this species is endemic to the southern Western Ghats region, living at elevations between 400 and 800 m. The species is found in evergreen and moist deciduous forests of the region. It is primarily terrestrial, living on the forest floor amid leaf litter or in burrows or tree hollows at the base. Here, it feeds on invertebrates and plant matter. The species is Endangered and suffers from numerous threats like habitat loss and poaching. The turtle is also temperature-sensitive, and climate change-induced rising temperatures are expected to harm this species, with little scope to move to a safer location. Forest fires also threaten this species.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Rajasthan And Where To See Them

A desert fox mum suckling its babies. Image credit: Sumeet Moghe via Wikimedia Commons.

When talking about Rajasthan, people mostly think of vast stretches of lifeless sand dunes or royal cities with grand palaces and havelis. However, the state hosts a wide variety of ecosystems, from the forests of Ranthambhore to the grasslands of the Thar Desert and the raw desert itself. Biodiversity thrives everywhere in the state. Even its seemingly lifeless habitats are full of life. So, from across Rajasthan, here are seven iconic species you must see.

Indian Tiger

A reclining tiger in Ranthambhore National Park. Image credit: LuisVilla via Wikimedia Commons.

Talk about watching tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) in India, and the name of Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve appears at the top of the list. This protected area of Rajasthan is known for offering great tiger sightings, thanks to the sparse vegetation during the dry seasons of summer and winter, which allows one to see long distances through the forest. Photographers also seek the opportunity to capture a tiger’s photo amid the ancient ruins of historical forts and gateways in Ranthambhore. The Sariska Tiger Reserve nearby also houses tigers. Overall, the state is home to around 88 tigers.

Great Indian Bustard

A Great Indian Bustard. Image credit: Prajwalkm via Wikimedia Commons.

Rajasthan’s Thar Desert grasslands remain one of the world’s last places that house the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) or Ardeotis nigriceps. This primarily ground-dwelling bird can be seen in the Desert National Park and adjoining areas in the state’s Jaisalmer District. The GIB faces many threats, including collisions with overhead power lines, loss of grasslands due to overgrazing, agricultural expansion, encroachment by human settlements, the installation of solar power plants and wind turbines, and more.

Indian Desert Cat

An Indian desert cat. Image credit: Raja Bandi via Wikimedia Commons.

Roughly the size of a domestic cat, this species (Felis lybica ornata), also known as the Asiatic wildcat, can be spotted by the lucky visitor in the Desert National Park of Rajasthan and its surroundings. In India, its range extends to other arid and semi-arid areas of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The species remains well-camouflaged in the desert habitat by virtue of its sandy-coloured coat, which has small black spots. The tail has a black tip and black rings. The ears are long and pointed. Its coat colour is known to vary with its habitat. In Rajasthan, its primary prey is the Indian desert jird.

Indian Spiny-tailed Lizard

A spiny-tailed lizard. Image credit: Muhammad Musab Malik via Wikimedia Commons.

It is a threatened reptile found in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. The species Saara hardwickii is predominantly herbivorous and feeds on the flowers, fruits, and seeds of local plants. In the ecosystem, it plays a major role as food for raptors and other birds. The lizard is a threatened species, listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List. It is poached by the locals for the use of its fat as an aphrodisiac.

Lesser Florican

A male lesser florican in display. Image credit: Parth Kansara via Wikimedia Commons.

Another highly threatened bird species, the critically endangered lesser florican (Sypheotides indicus), breeds in the grasslands and agricultural fields of Rajasthan’s Ajmer district. During the monsoon, male lesser floricans perform their unique courtship display, jumping several feet into the air and making characteristic sounds to attract the female. Unfortunately, only a few individuals of this species survive today. Time is almost running out for the lesser floricans who suffer from many threats like habitat loss and degradation, poaching, power line collision, predation by feral dogs, nest trampling or destruction by humans and agricultural procedures, etc.

Chinkara

Chinkara from Jorbeer, Rajasthan. Image credit: Mvshreeram via Wikimedia Commons.

This dainty-looking antelope, also called the Indian gazelle (Gazella bennettii) is found across grasslands and shrublands in Rajasthan’s arid to semi-arid areas. They can be found near Bishnoi villages and farmlands, as the Bishnoi community is a strong protector of blackbucks, chinkaras, and other local wildlife. Chinkaras are usually found alone or in small groups. Sometimes, larger groups of 8 to 10 individuals are seen. They usually feed after sunset. They have a reddish-buff coloured coat with a white belly and throat.

Desert Fox

Desert fox pups playing. Image credit: Sumeet Moghe via Wikimedia Commons.

The desert fox, also called the white-footed fox (Vulpes vulpes pusilla), is another iconic species found in Rajasthan. It is not too big, almost the same size as the desert cat, has a bushy tail, small beady eyes, and a coat colour that is a mix of sandy, white, and grey. Its adorable look is often what wildlife photographers crave to capture. The species is well-adapted to the desert environment, with longer hind limbs that help it run from predators such as raptors and large ears that allow it to detect the sounds of prey. These opportunistic omnivores feed on a variety of animal and plant matter. The Desert National Park offers the opportunity to witness these adorable carnivores in action.

As you can see, these iconic species of Rajasthan are facing a troubled future. They are already reeling from so many threats. Climate change will worsen their fate. What happens to the ecosystem will affect us as well. Hence, efforts to protect these iconic species of Rajasthan need to be sped up before it is too late.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Mizoram And Where To See Them

 Mizoram, tucked within the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife shaped by its rugged hills, dense forests, and varied ecosystems. From elusive mountain-dwelling mammals and arboreal primates to rare birds and newly discovered reptiles, the state supports species found in few other parts of India. Here are 7 iconic wild animals found in Mizorma.

Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant

A Mrs. Hume's pheasant. Image credit: Christoph Moningvia Wikimedia Commons.

Mizoram’s state bird, the stunning Mrs. Hume’s pheasant (Syrmaticus humiae), is named after the wife of Allan Octavian Hume, a renowned British ornithologist. The males of this species exhibit striking plumage colours, whereas the females have a subdued colour. The bird range includes parts of Northeast India, Myanmar, southern China and parts of Thailand. The bird prefers inhabiting forest edge areas, as well as areas with mixed vegetation types and along the edges of farmlands. In Mizoram, it is locally known as Vavu and is more common in the Champhai and Saiha districts. It is possible to see them in the Phawngpui and Murlen National Parks of the state. The bird is a threatened species and is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It suffers from habitat loss due to slash-and-burn agricultural practices, forest fires, infrastructure development and also hunting for meat and feathers.

Himalayan Serow

Close-up of a Himalayan serow. Image credit: Dibyendu Ash via Wikimedia Commons.

The Himalayan serow (Capricornis sumatraensis thar) is the state animal of Mizoram. A subspecies of the Mainland serow, this member of the Bovidae family is found across the Himalayas in India, but in small numbers. It is well-adapted to live on the rocky slopes and extreme conditions. It is a strict herbivore that migrates from lower to higher elevations in the summer and vice versa in the winter, depending on food availability. They are usually solitary in nature and active most of the day, but more at dawn. Poaching for meat and habitat loss are major threats to the animal. At the species level, the Mainland serow is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Bengal Slow Loris

A Bengal slow loris. Image credit: ian_dugdale via Wikimedia Commons.

The Nycticebus bengalensis is found in the evergreen and mixed deciduous forests of Mizoram. Its range in India includes the states of the northeast. Beyond India, it inhabits parts of Bangladesh, Myanmar, China and Southeast Asia. It is a venomous mammal that is arboreal and nocturnal. It feeds on nectar and other plant parts and occasionally on small invertebrates. The species is Endangered and is threatened by habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. It is also heavily poached for traditional medicines and sport. It is also collected for the illegal pet trade market. The Dampa Tiger Reserve in Mizoram houses a small population of the Bengal slow loris.

Leopard Cat

An elusive leopard cat in the wilderness. Image credit: Shan2797 via Wikimedia Commons

The Mainland leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) is a small wild cat species found in Mizoram. Although widely distributed from parts of the Indian subcontinent to Southeast Asia to East Asia, this species is highly elusive and very difficult to spot and observe. It also adapts to a wide variety of habitats from forests to grasslands, shrublands, wetlands, and even plantations and croplands. The cat hunts small prey, primarily rodents, birds, and some reptiles. It lives at elevations ranging from 0 m above sea level to 4,474 m. Although still a Least Concern species on the IUCN Red List, the leopard cat suffers threats like habitat loss and hunting.

Mizoram Parachute Gecko

Endemic to Mizoram, this is a newly-described species. The Gekko mizoramensis is endemic to Mizoram. It was discovered in May 2022 in Lawngtlai town in the southern part of the state. Little has been studied about the species. It was found feeding on insects at dusk. Being a parachute gecko, this species possesses special adaptations that allow it to leap into the air and glide from one surface to another up to a distance of around 200 feet.

Phayre's Leaf Monkey

The Phayre's leaf monkey. Image credit: Md. Tareq Aziz Touhid via Wikimedia Commons.

The Phayre’s leaf monkey (Trachypithecus phayrei) is an Endangered primate species found in the Northeast Indian states of Assam, Mizoram and Tripura and some parts of Bangladesh and Myanmar. The species inhabits evergreen and mixed deciduous forests. It is predominantly diurnal, arboreal and folivorous (fruit-eating) in nature. The animal suffers from hunting to remove its gallstones which are used in traditional medicines and for its meat. It also suffers from habitat loss and degradation due to high deforestation rates.

Clouded Leopard

A clouded leopard. Image credit: Sandeep pai1986 via Wikimedia Commons.

A magnificent mid-sized wild cat, the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is a threatened species listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is found in parts of South and Southeast Asia at elevations ranging from 3,700 to 5,580 m. In India, it is primarily found in the northeastern part, including the Dampa Tiger Reserve in Mizoram. Leopard cats are highly arboreal animals and thus prefer living in tropical evergreen rainforests, but are also sometimes found in dry and deciduous forests, grasslands, etc. These cats feed on a wide variety of prey, including small ungulates, birds and reptiles. Habitat destruction and illegal hunting are the two biggest threats to the species.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In The Andaman And Nicobar Island And Where To See Them

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an isolated archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, are among India’s most biologically rich regions. Separated from the mainland for millions of years, these islands have evolved a remarkable variety of plant and animal life, much of it found nowhere else on Earth. Dense tropical forests, mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows together support a unique mix of terrestrial and marine species. Among this extraordinary biodiversity, several animals stand out as truly iconic, symbolising the ecological importance of the islands.

Andaman Cuckoo Dove (Macropygia rufipennis)

Andaman Cuckoo-dove from Mt Harriett National Park, Andaman. Image credit: Mvshreeram via Wikimedia Commons.

This beautiful endemic species of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands inhabits forested areas on the islands and feeds on fruits and berries. Although they have been classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, these birds face many threats, including habitat loss and poaching. Although an accurate population census of the species is missing, it is estimated that the bird’s numbers are steadily dropping. These birds have been spotted in the outskirts of Port Blair and are usually found hidden in the forested areas of the islands. The Mount Harrier National Park is an excellent place to observe these birds.

Andaman Cobra (Naja sagittifera)

An Andaman cobra. Image credit: Moinudheen via Wikimedia Commons.

One of the most threatened species of cobras, the Andaman cobra is an endangered species on the IUCN Red List. It is endemic to the islands and has a very potent venom. It can also spit its venom, but is less efficient than the true spitting cobras in this behaviour. It inhabits forested and semi-modified habitats, playing a vital role in controlling small vertebrate populations. Seeing this animal demands great luck because it is one of the best-kept secrets of the Andaman Islands and is known to be extremely elusive and mysterious in nature.

Dugong (Dugong dugon)

A dugong near Neil Island in the Andamans. Image credit: Vardhanjp via Wikimedia Commons.

This threatened marine mammal is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. The shallow coastal waters of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are among the best places to observe these animals in India. However, only a small population of the animal survives here, making sightings extremely rare. As a specialist herbivore reliant on seagrass meadows, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and productivity of marine ecosystems.

Andaman Day Gecko (Phelsuma andamanense)

Andaman day gecko photographed outside Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Image credit: Kalyanvarma via Wikimedia Commons.

This endemic reptile of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a stunner in appearance. It has a bright green colour with red spots and stripes on the back. The tail in males is blue or turquoise. This diurnal and arboreal gecko is one of the few wild species that has managed to adapt well to the increasing anthropogenic presence and has found a new habitat in agricultural fields. Hence, it has grown in numbers and is a least concern species on the IUCN Red List. By feeding on insects, it acts as a natural pest controller.

Nicobar Long-tailed Macaque (Macaca fascicularis umbrosus)

A Nicobar long-tailed macaque in the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve. Image credit: Prasun Goswami via Wikimedia Commons.

A subspecies of the crab-eating macaque, this primate is endemic to the Nicobar Islands, where it is found in only three locations: Great Nicobar, Little Nicobar, and Katchal. It prefers to inhabit mangroves but is also found in coastal and inland forests. These animals are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN and are threatened with habitat loss and human disturbance. These frugivorous animals feed on fruits and nuts, helping to disperse seeds. The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve Forest houses a population of these primates.

Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)

A saltwater crocodile. Image credit: Richard.Fisher via Wikimedia Commons.

This apex predator of saltwater habitats is the largest living reptile species in the world. The Andamans host a considerable population of these salties in the coastal waters, mangroves, and open sea. The crocodile helps keep prey populations in check. On rare occasions, crocodiles have approached beaches visited by humans and raised alarms, with a few cases of human deaths due to crocodile attacks reported in the Andamans. Such incidents are, however, very rare, and the waters of the Andamans are mostly safe for swimming and other activities. It is always wise to listen to locals when venturing on isolated beaches to ensure the safety of the waters in the area.

Narcondam Hornbill (Rhyticeros narcondami)

Narcondam Hornbill female on the Ficus rumphii tree. Image credit: Rohitjahnavi via Wikimedia Commons.

This hornbill has the most restricted habitat of all hornbills found in Asia. It is endemic to only Narcondam Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands region. It is highly dependent on intact forest habitats and serves as a flagship species for the conservation of island biodiversity. The species is primarily frugivorous in nature.

Seven Iconic Wild Animals Found In Punjab And Where To See Them

While Punjab may not be the first state that comes to mind when discussing wildlife, it does have its own fair share of animals that have adapted to living in its agricultural fields, fragmented forests, and grasslands. With the exception of the first species on this list (which is completely missing from the state despite being a state symbol), the rest are present in significant to extremely low numbers in the state. Protecting these wild species must be a top priority for Punjab in the coming times.

Northern Goshawk - The Missing State Bird Of Punjab

A Northern goshawk. Image credit: F. Dahlmann via Wikimedia Commons.

The Northern Goshawk, a formidable raptor, is the state bird of Punjab. However, unfortunately, this bird has not been seen in Punjab since its declaration, and there is more to the story. In 1989, the Eastern goshawk, a bird found in Africa, was designated as the state bird of Punjab. It was realised in 2015 that the bird had no presence in India, and the eastern goshawk was replaced with the northern goshawk, which is present in India. However, even this species has not been seen in Punjab’s skies. The choice of this bird, known as “baaz” in the local language, was primarily driven by the fact that it is mentioned in the Sikh religion’s sacred texts. The search for the bird is still on in the skies of Punjab and in 2025, a panel was formed to locate Punjab’s missing goshawks and citizens were asked to report the bird in case they happened to spot one.

Blackbuck

Blackbucks in the grassland. Image credit: Shadow Ayush via Wikimedia Commons.

The state animal of Punjab, the blackbuck, with its strikingly spiralled horns and elegant leap, is beloved of the region’s Bishnoi community. These animals are found in significant numbers in grasslands and agricultural fields near Bishnoi settlements. The Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal location to observe these beautiful animals in their natural habitat, protected by the Bishnois who reside there.

Sarus Crane

Image credit: Ad031259 via Wikimedia Commons.

Standing as the world’s tallest flying bird, the Sarus Crane brings grace to Punjab’s wetlands and agricultural fields. A few decades ago, these birds had almost ceased to exist in the state, but now, the populations are gradually rising. Sarus cranes are known for their lifelong pairing, with their bond being so strong that the death of one mate often leads the other to starve itself to death. Thus, these birds are considered symbols of loyalty and marriage in parts of northern India. In Punjab, a pair of sarus cranes has been found to make the Keshopur wetland their permanent home. It is an extremely rare phenomenon as these birds usually move from one wetland to another. However, experts believe that the protection offered to the Keshopur wetland by restricting human activities in the area has allowed the birds to build their forever home in the area, as other regions remain unfavourable for their settlement.

Indus River Dolphin

A rare image of an Indus River dolphin. Image credit: Christina H Lockyer and Gill T Braulik via Wikimedia Commons.

Punjab is the only home to the Indus River dolphin in India. However, this endangered species is on the verge of disappearing from the state, with the latest census finding only three individuals in the Beas River of Punjab. These dolphins are extremely sensitive to environmental changes and are threatened by river pollution, disturbances like the movement of vessels, dams, and also fish net entanglement.

Barking Deer

A male barking deer. Image credit: KongkhamWichit via Wikimedia Commons.

Recognisable by its dog-like “bark,” which it uses as an alarm call, the barking deer, or muntjac, is among the most widespread deer species in India. In Punjab, it inhabits forests, foothills, and dense thickets. As a key herbivore, it helps shape vegetation patterns and serves as prey for carnivores, such as leopards.

Leopard

A leopard in the grassland. Image credit: Haplochromis via Wikimedia Commons.

While Punjab does not have a very notable population size of this big cat, leopard sightings in the state are growing. According to sources, the loss of forest cover in neighbouring Himachal is forcing leopards to enter Punjab and mark their territory in the state. The government of the state is now planning to develop Anandpur Sahib's Jhajjar Bachauli Wildlife Sanctuary as Punjab’s first leopard safari venue.

Chinkara

A chinkara. Image credit: Mvshreeram, via Wikimedia Commons.

The chinkara, or Indian gazelle, is a slender, swift antelope adapted to the dry scrublands and semi-arid plains of Punjab. It thrives in landscapes where thorny vegetation and open terrain offer both food and escape routes. The species is known for its remarkable agility and ability to survive harsh, water-scarce conditions. The Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary is a great place to spot these dainty antelopes. It is a private protected area managed by the local Bishnoi community.