The Sundarban wildlife experience is more than just spotting the legendary Royal Bengal Tiger. The Sundarbans, with its extensive river system, creeks, mudflats and mangrove forests, has an amazing diversity of animals and birds.
The boat safari is an exclusive experience to see wildlife
in their natural habitat. Animals can be seen along the river banks or in the
thick of the mangroves. Each safari is unique and so is the experience of
having to be patient and watchful.
Royal Bengal Tiger
The most popular of the Sundarban's residents is the Royal
Bengal Tiger. The dense environment of mangroves can make the sighting of a
tiger difficult and not predictable, unlike the open grassland habitats where
it is easy to spot a tiger.
With a tiger sighting, you cannot guarantee what you will
see, but it certainly does add to the excitement of every safari. Carefully
observe along river banks, creeks and edges of forests; listen to your guide's
observations.
Pugmarks or even a stirring in the greenery can be a
memorable aspect for wildlife photographers even if they don't get to see the
actual wildlife.
Spotted Deer
The more commonly seen mammals in the Sundarban include
spotted deer (chital).
They may occasionally be found along edges of forest or open
areas of land. They also play an important role in the natural food chain of
the forest.
A herd of spotted deer in front of a mangrove backdrop can
be a great source for wildlife and environment photographs for photographers.
Saltwater Crocodiles
The saltwater crocodile is found in the Sundarban, a very
strong crocodile. These reptiles are especially suited to the tidal waterways
of this area.
Sometimes they are found standing in muddy banks or floating
by the banks of rivers or creeks, partially immersed. They can be very hard to
see due to their camouflage.
Never approach with a crocodile boat or get too close when
watching crocodiles, always follow the advice of the boat crew and guide.
Wild Boar
The Sundarbans are a home to another interesting mammal, the
wild boar. They are able to wander through the forest and muddy areas in search
of food.
While they may not be as popular as tigers or crocodiles,
meeting wild boars is a way of enhancing the variety of a safari in the wild.
Their interactions with the mangrove environment and their
behavior can also be interesting for those interested in photography.
Monitor Lizards
Sundarban's environment is warm and wet, making it a great
living place for monitor lizards.
The large reptiles may be seen prowling through vegetation,
or resting by water ways (or looking for food). They may be able to hide in
their habitat, so attention is required to observe them.
If you are a nature lover, you will find it rewarding to see
a monitor lizard as it will remind you that the Sundarban has some interesting
reptiles as well as mammals.
Snakes and Other Reptiles
Several species of snakes and other reptiles are also found
in the mangrove ecosystem. There are some that live in the plants and others
that are sometimes found by the waterways or border of forests.
People should NOT go near, disturb or photograph snakes! It
is always best to observe wildlife from a distance and under the supervision of
well-trained personnel.
Birdlife of the Sundarbans
One of the most fun activities of exploring the wildlife of
the Sundarban is birdwatching. These waterways, mudflats and mangroves are home
to numerous resident and migratory birds.
Throughout the season and year, visitors can see
kingfishers, herons, egrets, cormorants, raptors and others wetland birds.
The boat offers bird photographers a special perspective.
Early mornings can be very rewarding because birds tend to be more active and
the light is softer.
Every Safari Is Different, And This Is A Good Thing
There are several natural conditions that effect the
sightings of wildlife in the Sundarbans, such as tides, weather, animal
movement and the time of day. Animals are not set in stone; you're not
guaranteed to see a particular species on every tour.
It is this randomness that makes a Sundarban safari so
special. Even though you are expecting to see only a tiger, remember to look
for deer amongst the forest, crocodiles by the water and colourful birds, or
reptiles amongst the plants.
Enjoy the All Inclusive Sundarban Wildlife Experience
While the Royal Bengal Tiger may be the centrepiece, it is
just one component of this amazing ecosystem. The extraordinary biodiversity of
the Sundarbans is also home to the spotted deer, saltwater crocodile, wild
boar, monitor lizards, snakes and the wide range of bird-life.
A well-planned tour offers just a chance for wildlife
lovers, photographers and birdwatchers to experience this ecosystem from the
water and enjoy the many species that make the Sundarbans unique.
