SIKKIM PROJECT

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7849
SHIVANSH GARG
Biodiversity
The State is endowed with rich floral and faunal diversity. Species
wise, the State harbors over 4500 flowering plants, 550 Orchids,
36 Rhododendrons, 16 Conifers, 28 Bamboos, 362 Ferns and its
allies, 9 Tree Ferns, 30 Primulas, 11 Oaks, over 424 Medicinal
plants, 144+ mammals, 550 Birds, 48 Fishes and over 600
Butterflies. While these figures are still not absolute, it may be
kept in mind that this is only the mega-fauna and flora. The
tremendous diversity of insects like beetles and moths as well
as a host of other life forms is yet to be enumerated. Most of
the high altitude medicinal plants are rare and endangered
species. Sikkim also has 28 Mountains/Peaks, more than 80
Glaciers, 227 high altitude lakes/wetlands and over 104 rivers
and streams.
 Biodiversity Parks in Sikkim

1. Khangchendzonga National Park - Many animals like Red Panda and

Himalayan Birds et al are the hundreds of species that can be seen on a jeep
safari, which remains an extensively delightful ride in itself. For a once-in-a-
lifetime experience

2. Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary - A notable name of Sikkim Wildlife is

home to some of the most exotic animals such as the Asiatic Black Bear, Red
Fox and about 300 Red Pandas which also happens to be the largest number in
the world reserved at one place. It also has the rare species of flora which
includes the Silver Fir, Oak, Bamboo and the Rhododendron amongst others.
All in all, it has about 101 species of trees in its forests.
3. Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary - It is surrounded by some of
the best lakes in Sikkim, the Singalila Range and so does it share its border with
the neighboring country, Nepal. It is home to exotic wildlife animals including
the Himalayan Langur, Leopard Cat and Himalayan Palm Civet amongst others.

4. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary - It remains famous globally for its

Avocado trees. Several hills fall under its premises out of which the highest one
being the Tinjurey peak at a height of 2130 m. It is regarded as an extension of
the Kangchendzonga National Park. A few small villages are in their midst
named Mangan, Dikchu, and Pangthang. They always remain the centre of
attraction for the visitors. This Sikkim wildlife sanctuary is also one of the
most visited attraction by travellers.
Map Location
Endangered Species

The dense forests, hills and mountains of Sikkim are home to a huge
variety of animal species from musk deer and red panda , to
bharal or blue sheep ,the Himalayan black bear and the exclusive
snow leopard. Due to enchroachments ,and climate change ,many
of these are endangered and threatened. The lowland forests of
Sikkim are home to Sikkim's largest reptile Burmese python ,house
geckos, the Himalayan crestless porcupine , the Chinese pangolian
,and barking deer.Several species of birds can also be found here -
the great pied hornbill locally called 'hongraio', chestnut-breasted
partridge, the red jungle fowl and more.
1.Gray Langur - is an Old World monkey, and was
formerly considered a subspecies of the northern plains.
The species is listed as Near Threatened, as there are
probably not many more than 10,000 mature individuals,
and it is experiencing a continuing decline.
2.Javan Rhinoceros - is a very rare member of the
family Rhinocerotidae and one of five extant rhinoceroses.
It belongs to the same genus as the Indian rhinoceros, and
has similar mosaic, armor-like skin.

3.Pygmy Hog - is a native to alluvial grasslands

in the foothills of the Himalayas at elevations of up to
300 m. As the population is estimated at less than 250
mature individuals, it is listed as Endangered specie.