Wildlife Wednesday

~ Can You Name 6 Animals Native to India? ~

1. The Nilgai: Although extinct in Bangladesh, the Nilgai is one of the most commonly spotted animals in central and northern India, and the largest Asian Antelope. It lives mainly in grasslands and scrub forests. The mature male has an ox-like appearance and is also know as the Blue Bull, and has horns, unlike its female counterpart.

2. The Indian Flying Fox: At the "Least Concern" conservation status, this very large bat lives in colonies of hundreds and thousands in large trees, mostly in large tropical swamps, or near a water body. It is a nocturnal creature that feeds mainly on ripe fruits and nectar.

3. The Chinkara: Also ranked at "Least Concern", this shy species of gazelle is capable of going without water for long stretches and can survive of the fluids they get from plants and dew. The Chinkara is a loner by nature, but can occasionally be spotted in groups of three or four.

4. The Pangolin, or Scaly Anteater: Classified as "Near Threatened", the pangolin is the only mammal found with large keratin scales covering its skin, which helps it to defend itself against more savage beasts. Devoid of teeth, the scaly anteater lacks the ability to chew, and therefore probes into anthill and termite mounds with its long stick tongue.

5. Leopard: This "Near Threatened" the leopard is one of the five wild cats found in India, and can survive in all types of environments from open country to dense forests. The leopard approaching "Vulnerable" status, as it is a major victim of habitat loss, poaching and illegal trade in skin and furs.

6. The Indian Elephant: Today an endangered species, the Indian Elephant is one of the three species of the Asian Elephant and lives in tropical forest habitats, from moist, evergreen lowlands, to dry semi-deciduous teak forests, and can even be found in cooler mountain forests up to 10,000 feet.