Flora and Fauna
The Blackbuck is a common antelope of this region. The national park's other notable inhabitants are the desert fox, wolf and desert cat. Birdlife in this sandy habitat is vivid and spectacular. Birds such as sandgrouse, partridges, bee-eaters, larks, and shrikes are commonly seen. In the winter, the birdlife is augmented by species such as the Demoiselle Crane and MacQueen's Bustard.
Perhaps the greatest attraction of the park is a bird called the Great Indian Bustard, an endangered species found only in India. Desert National Park is one of the last sites in which this species can be found in good numbers. As such, the species draws in thousands of birdwatchers from all over the world. In addition to the Great Indian Bustard, the park supports a variety of other birds of interest to birdwatchers and conservationists alike.
The Thar Desert, often called an 'ocean of sand', covers a large area of western Rajasthan. The fragile ecosystem of the Thar supports a unique and varied wildlife. In this vast ocean of sands lies the famous Desert National Park, which provides an excellent example of the ecosystem of the Thar Desert and its diverse wildlife adventure.
The vegetation is sparse, and patches of sewan grass and aak shrub (Calotropis) can be seen. The landscape includes craggy rocks and compact salt lake bottoms, as well as intermediate areas and both fixed and shifting dunes. Around 20 percent of the vast expanse is covered with sand dunes. Padam Talao lake, Rajbaugh lake, Milak lake are the main water sources for the animals dwelling in this harsh habitat.
Flora: Ronj, palm trees, Ber, dhok.
Fauna: Desert Fox, Bengal Fox, Desert Cat, Wolf, Hedgehog, Blackbuck and Chinkara.
Reptiles: Spiny-tailed lizard, monitor lizard, Saw-scaled Viper, Russell's viper, Common Krait.
Avifauna: Sandgrouse, partridges, bee-eaters, larks and shrikes are year-round residents, while demoiselle crane and houbara bustard arrive in winter. Raptors include Tawny and Steppe Eagles, Long-legged and Honey Buzzards, and falcons.
Read more about this topic: Desert National Park
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