Wildlife
Viewing
The nature of the habitat dictates the quantity,
diversity and visibility of wildlife. Corbett is
the oldest National Park opened in India and has
a high tiger density but sightings aren't easy because
of dense undergrowth.
The broadleafed forested hills and the riverine
habitat offer a rich mix of wildlife. Apart from
seeing big runs of Golden Mahseer and the giant
catfish Goonch, the river is also frequented by
the Common Indian Otter. Pythons have been seen
around deep pools with dense vegetation around.
Wild elephants, usually loners, occasionally visit
this area. Sambhar and barking deer are commonly
sighted and as it gets dark their echoing alarm
calls indicate the presence of carnivores in the
valley.
Nature trails along the river reveal pugmarks of
leopards, tiger and spoor of the fishing cat. Ghoral,
a shy species of goat antelope, is commonly sighted
on the massive cliff faces and rocky gorges that
edge the Ramganga. Another rare and extremely shy
goat antelope, the Serow, has been sighted here
and photographed for the first time in November
2004, perhaps the first photo evidence in this region. |