Do you ever see wild animals?
The content explores the intricate interrelationship between forests, wildlife, and human beings. It highlights experiences in Dudhwa and Corbett National Parks in India. Amidst vibrant jungles, visitors meet a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, peacocks, and rhinoceroses. These animals contribute to the ecosystem independently of human needs, yet humans often exploit these natural resources. Key observations reveal the challenges of spotting elusive creatures like tigers and the beautiful aesthetics of the parks. The piece also underscores the need to respect wildlife. Adhering to park guidelines is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. It reinforces the necessity of conservation and harmonious coexistence with nature.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- The article discusses the relationship between forests and wildlife, emphasizing their interdependence and the need for conservation.
- It highlights experiences in Dudhwa and Corbett National Parks, showcasing various wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.
- Visitors must respect wildlife and adhere to park guidelines for safety and enjoyment during their visits.
- The piece warns against human activities that exploit natural resources and disrupt animal habitats.
- It concludes that maintaining a harmonious balance between humans, animals, and forests is vital for sustainability.
vibrant tranquility
April was nearing its end. The weather was hot, but it felt moderate in the jungle. Amidst quietness, the throbbing of the vibrant forest was palpable. Except for the Psithurism of fallen leaves and dried understories, there was a lull. The elephant with wildlife lovers on its back was strolling in the forest. Every nook and corner of the forest allowed enthusiasts to watch it with awe and admiration…
(1) Forest and wildlife
Forests and Wildlife are inseparable entities. They are interdependent but independent of humans. Contrarily, humans depend on Forests and Wildlife for their unfulfilled, ever-growing desires, animals and trees are not. They selflessly contribute their share to human welfare. Human activities are often ruthless exploitation without replenishment. It causes destruction and damage to the forest, wildlife and ecosystem.
(2) The peacock
A peacock (Pavo cristatus) squawked nearby. The bird perched elegantly on a bough. It looked stunningly beautiful with its pavonine plumage. Its long flowing train of covert feathers added to its charm. It occupies a special place in Indian culture. Gracefully beautiful, peacock broke the silence and the chain of thoughts.
Dudhwa National Park
The elephant was venturing deep into the forest. As it went deep, the mystery of the forest deepened. Amidst the trees were giant mounds of white ants (Termites). Some of the mounds were broken, ostensibly by wild bears, indicating that bears lived there. (UP Ecotourism)
(1) Vegetation and wildlife
It is the magnificent and lush Dudhwa National Park (DNP). Situated in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh (India), Dudhwa NP is famous for its wildlife. Teeming with wildlife, including Tigers, Sambhars, Hispid hares and Swamp deer, the forest is composed mainly of broad-leaved deciduous trees. Tiger sighting is an awe-inspiring experience.
(2) “Baanke Tal”
The elephant arrived at a water hole. A large natural pond, known as “Baanke Tal”, features a watchtower, or “Machaan”, nearby. Animals used to come here to quench their thirst. Closely watching a jungle is a pleasant experience. Many spoor seen on the damp clay silt of the water hole. Prominent among all was the most sought-after animal – the tiger. The pug marks of a tiger on the alluvium of the pond testified to the tiger’s frequent visits. It often visits that spot to quench its thirst or hunt.
(3) Tiger
A grandiose carnivore, the tiger is at the top of the jungle ecosystem. The tiger is elusive and a master of camouflage. It is often said that if you see a tiger once, it must have spotted you a hundred times. Tigers have incredibly sharp senses of sight and hearing, making it difficult to track and watch them in the jungle. The famous hunter-turned-naturalist Jim Corbett once stated that capturing a tiger on camera is far more challenging. He also said that it is harder than shooting one with a gun.
(4) Missed the opportunity
The alert “Mahout” (The elephant keeper) cautioned. Touching his ear, he tried to listen carefully. Hearing the alarming call of the deer, he turned the elephant to dive deep into the forest. Though the elephant reached the place, to found nothing. The tiger had vanished, leaving its trail. Aside from the fresh deep scratches on the tree trunk, there was nothing else to note.
(5) Rhinoceros
The next morning was the time to spot a Rhinoceros. Yet another irascible wild animal, the rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis), attacks when it senses danger. Once a permanent resident of DNP, rhinoceroses have again been reintroduced here. Approaching them on an elephant’s back is a thrilling experience. There were Heaps of dung on a fixed site demonstrates the animal’s behaviour. Rhinoceroses ease themselves out on a particular spot, and they frequent that spot. At a short distance, two rhinos were grazing. It was a mother with her calf. Luckily, the mother was in a good mood. It raised its head with a morsel of grass in its mouth and cast a casual glance. The calf was beside its mother. After some time, they slowly moved away, leaving beholders spellbound.
Corbett National Park
On another occasion, luck was on the right side. It was the month of February, and Corbett National Park was teeming with life. That day, it rained heavily. A jeep halted for a while in a small forest rest house. Suddenly, a spotted deer adorned with antlers appeared from the side and came out in the open. After careful glancing around for a few moments, it gracefully darted into the forest and vanished. (Wikipedia)
(1) Wildlife in the park
Corbett National Park is an iconic Park named after the great hunter-turned-naturalist Jim Corbett. Having vibrant and varied topography, the park is known for its tigers. India’s first Project Tiger was launched in this Park. Besides tigers, wild boars, cheetal, hog Deer, pythons, crocodiles and many colourful birds make the park lively.
(2) Dhikala “Chaur”
The morning was pleasant. After last night’s heavy rain, the sun shone through the mist. The elephant on duty walked deep into the forest, crossing the Ramganga River from Dhikala. The gentle pachyderm was wading through tall elephant grass in the plains or “Chaur” (flat). Suddenly, “Mahout” cautioned in a low whisper. Deers gave alarming calls. Raising their tails they and tapped one front leg on the ground. The ambience became silent and stupefied. Nothing special was visible except the shaking of elephant grass.
(3) Tiger was spotted
An angry growl and Lo! A full-grown tiger was right in front, barely a few feet away. Squatted and ready to charge, it jumped at the elephant. Fortunately, it failed. The trained elephant and experienced Mahout managed the situation. The tiger remained there for quite some time, growling and whipping its tail, after its failed try. It was an awe-inspiring sight, causing horripilation. Spotting a tiger in its natural habitat is an experience inexpressible.
Readers are requested to visit and read the blog “The Connection Between Humans and Animals“, too.
(4) Elephants
“Leedkhaliya Chaur” in Corbett National Park is known for elephants. Herds of elephants live here. The carefree-looking but intelligent elephants are aggressive in a wild state. It is advisable to avoid a lone tusker in the wild. The sight of a herd of elephants is a feast for the eyes. It is delightful to watch adult elephants guarding their calves.
(5) Crocodiles and blue bull
Watching basking crocodiles on the sandy banks of the Ramganga River is yet another thrilling experience. A solitary blue bull approached the stationary vehicle on the jungle road. It paused by the copilot’s window for a moment. Then, it slowly walked away as if saying goodbye. This made everyone emotional.
A word of advice
It is advisable to keep a safe distance while observing wild animals in their natural environment. Visitors are strictly advised not to get out of the vehicle or from the back of the elephant. The forests are beautiful but precarious. Due care and obeying the guidelines are necessary for a safe and enjoyable watch of jungle life.
(1) Strict NO
Cooking, playing the radio or music system is a big NO inside the park premises. It is dangerous. Besides alarming wild animals, it disrupts the normal lives of wild animals and provokes them to attack. What is the opinion of my readers in this respect? Please do comment in the comment box.
Harmonious balance is essential
The jungle, wildlife, and related ecosystems are vital for our existence. Watching them to connect with and rejuvenate ourselves is vital. It is important to remember that mute animals are living beings which deserve protection, care, and respect. They give us countless benefits. Maintaining a harmonious balance among humans, animals, and forests is essential for our sustainability and proper development.
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