Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the finest and richest (in flora and fauna) National Parks of India. Located in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is known for its exceptional natural beauty and the unique and diverse flora and fauna. Beautifully surrounded by a horseshoe shaped valley and the spurs of the Mekal ridge, the park covers an area of approximately 1,945 sq km, comprising of highly undulating topography with elevations ranging between 450 to 900 meters above sea level. The Surpan River, which meanders through central part of Kanha, is the lifeline of the park and provides a permanent source of water for rich and varied flora and fauna of the sanctuary.
The varied topography and a moderate climate support the growth of a diverse flora in Kanha National Park. About 70 species of trees are found in Kanha. The vegetation in the park chiefly comprises of Sal forests, large Bamboo stretches and the lush green meadows. The rich flora in the park supports a large variety of wildlife in Kanha National Park. According to surveys, Kanha is home to 22 species of large mammals and over 300 species of birds. The major wildlife attractions in Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary are Tigers, Leopards, Dholes (Indian wild dog), Indian Bisons, Sambar, Chital, Barasingha, Barking Deer, Black Buck, Chausingha, Nilgai, Monkeys, Mongoose, Mouse Deer, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Porcupine, Hyena, Jungle Cat, Hare, Rock Pythons among many others. The most commonly noticed birds in the park are Pea fowls, Storks, Pond Herons, Egrets, Peacock, Partridges, spotted Parakeets, Green Pigeons, Cuckoos, Drongos, Warblers, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers and fly catchers.
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