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across the country are wildlife sanctuaries whose areas extend over
several thousands of square kilometers, where wildlife can be observed
in their natural surroundings. Each sanctuary supports several species
of wildlife, being well known for one particular species. In some cases,
these are rare or even endangered species.
Thus, the Gir Forest in Gujarat is the only surviving home of the Asian
lion, Manas and Kaziranga in Assam have a significant population of
one horned rhinos, Periyar in Kerala is best known for wild elephant
viewing. Thamin deer at Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur, Hangul
or Kashmir stag at Dachigam, Srinagar, and blackbuck at Velavadhar in
Gujarat are the only homes of these species.
Project Tiger, initiated in 1973, identified major areas inhabited by
tigers. These became areas protected by the project, enabling a significant
increase of the tiger population. Bandhavgarh and Kanha sanctuaries
in Madhya Pradesh; Sariska and Ranthambore in Rajasthan and Corbett
Park and Dudhwa in Uttar Pradesh are some of the country's best known
tiger reserves.
Other species at these places include panthers, and several species
of deer and antelope, the commonest of which are axis deer and blue
bull.
Bharatpur, a five hours drive from Delhi, has the largest bird sanctuary
in Asia. Waterbirds that migrate from other parts of the country include
herons, ibis, pelicans, painted storks. Various species of ducks and
geese migrate from places in Russia. These include Brahminy ducks and
the endangered Siberian crane. Stretched over 29 sq km of swamps and
marshes, Bharatpur has causeways which can be negotiated on foot, or
bicycle. The best time for a visit is from October to March when the
weather is relatively pleasant and when the sanctuary teems with bird
life. July-August is the breeding season for the resident species.
October to March is the most pleasant time to visit any sanctuary in
the country, with the exception of Dachigam in Kashmir which is best
visited during summer. However, the chances of spotting wildlife are
better from March to June when the weather is hot, and the sun dries
the dense foliage which otherwise provide effective cover for the animals.
All wildlife sanctuaries are accessible by car, and all have accommodation
within or near them. Many have specific visiting hours and provide forest
rangers with each party of visitors. The advantage is that with their
intimate knowledge of the forest and the habits of each animal, little
time is wasted getting to a spot where animals are most likely to be
seen.
Rules and regulations for wildlife sanctuaries are no more than those
dictated by common sense; wear clothes that blend rather than stand
out in the forest; perfumes and cigarettes should be avoided for animals
have an extremely keen sense of smell. Potentially dangerous animals
should not be approached on foot.
For the serious photographer, many sanctuaries have hides near frequently
used water holes. Lenses having a focal length of less than 300 mm have
little use, 600-1,200 mm lenses being most useful. High speed (at least
400 ASA) film comes in handy when the sanctuary has dense foliage.
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