So Fascinating: Did You Know About These Rare Animals Found In India?

A land that displays the most incredible geography, India is blessed with magnificent wildlife. With the numerous impacts of modernisation that has now led to the diminishing of the once thriving wildlife; the various sanctuaries and natural reserves in the country are actively making an attempt towards preserving a part of the flora and fauna found in India that are now extremely rare. With the country being home to many unique and rare animal species (which continue to face significant threats), here are some of the rare animals found in India that are sure to fascinate you. 

Nilgiri Tahr

Among the rare animals in India that are mostly found in the southern and western parts of the country, the Nilgiri Tahr is a unique-looking and interesting animal. With an appearance that features curved horns, coarse fur and a slightly sticky coat, the Nilgiri Tahr is an exotic species that can be spotted in the Anamalai Hills, Nilgiri Hills and the Palani Hills.

Bengal Tiger

A rare species in India that accounts for half the world’s tiger population, a majority of the Bengal tigers that are living are found in India. A relatively adaptable species, the Bengal tiger can be seen living in both hot and cold temperatures, as well as mangrove forests like Sundarbans. Among the 10 rare animals in India, the Bengal tiger has been subjected to persistent poaching throughout the years. With very few of this species now left in the wild, becomes all the more imperative to preserve this glorious animal and support the tiger conservation organisations.

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Snow Leopard

Among the rare animals found in India that are mainly concentrated in colder climates, the snow leopard can be spotted in areas such as Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and other regions near the Himalayas. These are big cats with thick fur, and feature grey and white coloured coats and stripes on their body for the purpose of camouflage. A rare species in India that is under constant threat, it is mostly difficult for the Snow Leopard to recover its number.

One-horned Rhinoceros

A rare animal in India that the country takes pride in, the one-horned rhinoceros is also known as the Indian rhinoceros. Mainly found in the foothills of the Himalayas, the one-horned rhino can be largely spotted in the Kaziranga National Park. An endangered species that has been targeted for years, the Indian rhinoceros is believed to have medicinal properties. A species that was at one time almost drawn to extinction, their current population numbers have bounced back, and is one of the most popular safaris in India.

Blackbuck

Among the 10 rare animals in India, the blackbuck is considered to be the most endangered species in the country. Largely found in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Andhra Pradesh, the blackbuck is also known as the Indian antelope and is considered to be among the most innocent creatures on earth. Severely hunted at one time in the princely states of India, active conservation efforts are now being made to help increase the population of the blackbucks. Often found in small herds, a few of these rare species in India have now also been introduced in other countries like the United States and Argentina.

Lion-tailed Macaque

Largely found in the region of the Western Ghats and parts of South India, the lion-tailed macaque is a rather unique wildlife species which has traits and appearances that are largely similar to that of humans. With the highlighting feature of this animal being its charming tail and silver-white mane that surrounds its head, this recognisable monkey is rather shy and tends to remain in the upper canopies of the rainforests.

Kashmir Stag

A critically endangered species as stated by the IUCN for decades, the very elusive Kashmir stag is among the top 10 rare species in India. Don't be misled by the name, the Kashmiri stag is actually a variety of deer. Featuring a light rump patch and brown coat, the Kashmir stag is largely found in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the region of Overa-Aru and Sind Valley, as well as the forests of Bhaderwah and Kishtwar.

Red Panda

A rare animal found in India that is also known as the red-cat bear, the red panda is largely found in the forests of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. An endangered and unique species that is known for its playful behaviour, this small mammal is usually found sleeping and playing on bamboo trees.