Nepal Wildlife: Most Popular 14 Wildlife, National Parks, Wildlife Reserve, Conservation Areas, and Hunting Reserve

 

Nepal wildlife is amazingly beautiful, from the vibrant chorus of tigers, pandas, birds, and serpents to the protected reserves steeped in ancient wisdom. Trek through emerald valleys and witness the dance of endangered jewels. Nepal awaits your exploration.

 


 

 Diversity of Nepal Wildlife 

High Biodiversity:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Nepal boasts a stunning variety of plants and animals due to its diverse climate, ranging from tropical to arctic. This makes it a biodiversity hotspot with unique ecoregions.

 


 

Protected Areas:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

To preserve this rich fauna, Nepal has established numerous national parks and reserves, categorized into four levels of protection. These cover over 893,200 hectares of land.

 


 

Mammals:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Over 208 mammal species thrive in Nepal, including iconic Bengal tigers, snow leopards, and Asiatic elephants. Sadly, some, like the snow leopard, face endangerment.

 


 

Reptiles:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

From pit vipers to monitor lizards, Nepal shelters many reptiles, with some unique species like the Sitana fusca and the Cyrtodactylus nepalensis.

 


 

Birds:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The country boasts over 900 bird species, including the national bird, the danphe (a pheasant). The spiny babbler is endemic to Nepal.

 


 

Additional Fauna:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Aquatic species like catfish and minnows, diverse insects, and invertebrates like spiders and scorpions contribute to the vibrant animal kingdom.

 


 

Nepal’s Crimson Crown (Rhododendron):

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Deep within the emerald tapestry of Nepal, nature paints with fiery strokes. The undisputed jewel of this verdant canvas is the lali guras, the crimson rhododendron, beloved as Nepal’s national flower.

From 1,400 to 3,600 meters, these blooms weave a vibrant chorus against the snow-kissed peaks, symbolizing the land’s spirit.

More than just a breathtaking sight, the lali gurus embody the soul of Nepal. It whispers tales of unity and sovereignty, its petals echoing the “Lok tantra” spirit of inclusivity and equality. Woven into the very fabric of the national emblem, it surrounds the flag, Everest’s majesty, and fertile plains, with joined hands embracing gender parity.

This ancient mantra, “Mother and motherland are greater than heaven,” etched below, reminds us of the profound connection between people and their land.

Yet, the lali gurus whisper not just of national pride but of ancient wisdom. Its petals have been woven into traditional medicine for centuries, offering solace and healing. This timeless bond between nature and man speaks volumes, a testament to Nepali culture’s deep respect for the vibrant symphony of life that thrives within its borders.

Read More:    Top 10 Highest Mountains in Nepal  

 


 

 Most Popular Wildlife of Nepal

Bengal tiger:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Tigers in Nepal are found in the Terai Arc Landscape area, which includes five protected areas. The Bengal tiger is protected under CITES Appendix I and Nepal’s National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act of 1973.

Nepal has implemented conservation efforts since the 1970s, resulting in a significant population increase. However, doubling the global tiger population by 2022 may be challenging.

Effective conservation requires transboundary cooperation and joint actions across borders. Currently, only around 2,670 Bengal tigers exist in the wild.

Feature Description
Family Felidae
Genus Panthera
Diet Apex predator
Habitat Forests, grasslands
Range (historical) 7% of the historic range
Subspecies (extinct) 3
Subspecies (extant) 6
Countries: Nepal, India, Bhutan, Bangladesh
Home range needs Extensive
Population (Global) ~2,670 (2018 estimate)
Threats Prey depletion, habitat loss, poaching, human-wildlife conflict
Conservation goal Double the national population by 2022 (Nepal)
IUCN Red List status Endangered
CITES Appendix I

 


 

Elephants:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The Asian Elephant, a large mammal across Asia, prefers mixed forests, bamboo jungles, and grasslands.

In Nepal, they primarily inhabit the Terai region and are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.

Nepal protects them under Appendix I of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 and CITES law.

Feature Description
Order Proboscidea
Family Elephantidae
Habitat Mixed, deciduous, and evergreen forests, bamboo jungles, and grasslands
Distribution Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam
Population (Nepal) 255-265 wild + 150 domestic
Population (Global) 30,000-50,000
IUCN Red List Status Endangered
Threats Habitat degradation, loss of connectivity, human-wildlife conflict, disease
Legal Status (Nepal) Protected (Appendix I) under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973
Legal Status (CITES) Appendix I (wild) & II (domestic)

 


 

Snow leopard:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The snow leopard (Uncia uncia) is a large cat native to the high mountains of Central and South Asia.

It is listed as an endangered species by the IUCN Red List due to several threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-snow leopard conflict.

Feature Description
Order Carnivora
Family Felidae
Habitat Cold, arid, and semi-arid shrubland, alpine and subalpine areas, grasslands, and open forests
Distribution Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Nepal
Population 3,921-6,290 globally, 301-400 in Nepal
IUCN Red List status Endangered
Threats Habitat loss, poaching, and human-snow leopard conflict
Legal status in Nepal Protected (Appendix I) under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 and Appendix I in CITES law

 


 

Bear:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The Himalayan Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) is a large mammal in Asia, Europe, and North America.

It is listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN and is protected by law in Nepal.

The bear is traded in national and international markets for its bile, used in traditional medicine.

Feature Description
Order Carnivora
Family Ursidae
Habitat Asia, Europe, North America
Lifespan 20-30 years
Body color Reddish brown
Height 1.5-1.7 m
Length 1.5-2.8 m
Weight 130-550 kg
Gestation period 180-266 days
IUCN Red List status Vulnerable
CITES Appendix I
National Red List status in Nepal Critically endangered
Legal status in Nepal Protected
Threats Habitat loss, poaching

 


 

One-Horned Rhino:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The rhino population has shown a noticeable increase of 16.6% between 2015 and 2021.

However, the census faced several challenges, including COVID-related issues and unfortunate incidents, such as a fatal tiger attack.

The distribution details are provided by location, gender, and age categories, which offer a comprehensive overview of the rhino population in each area.

National Rhino Count 2021

Parameter Details
Rhino Population (2021) 752 individuals
Distribution by Location Chitwan NP: 694

Bardia NP: 38

Shuklaphanta NP: 17

Parsa NP: 3

Population Increase 107 rhinos compared to the 2015 census (645 rhinos)
Census Method Direct capture method using 57 elephants and 350 personnel deployed over 23 days (Chitwan-Parsa), 12 days (Bardia), and seven days (Shuklaphanta)
Challenges Faced Covid-related obstacles

Fatal tiger attack on an elephant mahout in Bardia NP

Ongoing hospitalization of an NTNC-BCC program officer from a wild elephant attack in Chitwan

 

Rhino Population Distribution by Location (2021)

Location Male Female Unknown Adult Semi-Adult Calf Total
Parsa NP 11 12 13 30 13 02 57
Chitwan NP, Buffer Zone, and Adjoining Forests 128 174 392 474 95 125 694
Bardia NP, Buffer Zone, and Adjoining Forests 14 19 53 11 63 89 38
Shuklaphanta NP 34 10 13 04 13 04 17
Total 146 198 408 520 96 136 752

 


 

Crocodile

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Gharial and Mugger crocodiles reside in the rivers of Nepal. The Gharial Breeding Center in Chitwan National Park has released over 1,200 gharials back into the wild since 1984.

Nepal has two crocodile species: the marsh mugger and gharial. Unfortunately, gharials were almost extinct in 1974. Conservation efforts include protected areas, breeding centers, and community engagement.

Feature Description
Location Tropical regions (Asia, Africa, Australia, America)
Habitat Lakes, rivers, and dams
Species in Nepal Marsh mugger (vulnerable), gharial (critically endangered)
Threats Habitat loss, poaching, pollution, and fishing practices
Conservation efforts Protected areas (Chitwan, Bardia National Parks), Gharial Breeding Center, and community involvement
Population trend Slow recovery (increased from 645 in 2015 to 752 in 2021)
Challenges Industrial pollution, hunting, and unsustainable fishing

 


 

Deer:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Nepal has multiple deer species, including barking deer, southern red muntjac, and hog deer.

Their conservation is crucial, and protected areas like Chitwan and Bardia National Parks play a vital role.

Habitat management, anti-poaching, and community engagement are necessary. Some, like the sambar and barasingha, are vulnerable to hunting and habitat loss, while the chital and Indian muntjac are more widespread.

Species Scientific Name IUCN Status Description Image
Large Sambar Rusa unicolor Vulnerable Shaggy appearance, prey of the Bengal tiger
Medium Indian Muntjac Muntiacus muntjak Least Concern “Barking Deer” sound
Medium Indian Hog Deer Hyelaphus porcinus Endangered Runs like a hog, preyed upon by tigers, leopards, and dholes
Medium Chital Axis axis Least Concern Brown with white spots, prey of the Bengal tiger
Large Swamp Deer (Barasingha) Rucervus duvaucelii Vulnerable Found only in Nepal and India, the population is declining due to hunting and habitat loss

 

Monkeys:

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Nepal has four monkey species: Rhesus Macaques, Assam Macaques, Himalayan Gray Langurs, and Northern Plains Grey Langurs.

Each has unique characteristics and plays an essential ecological role. Respecting them in their natural habitat is crucial.

Feature Rhesus Macaque Assam Macaque Himalayan Gray Langur Northern Plains Grey Langur
Scientific Name Macaca mulatta Macaca assamensis Semnopithecus schistaceus Semnopithecus entellus
Size (adult) 47-53 cm body, 21-23 cm tail 51-74 cm body, 15-30 cm tail 51-79 cm body, 69-102 cm tail 45-78 cm body, 80-112 cm tail
Fur Color Pale auburn/Grayish brown Light gray/Reddish brown Brown-gray/Lighter underside Silvery/Darker back
Habitat Grasslands, woodlands, and tropical forests Forests Himalayas, mixed forests Deciduous forests, shrublands, and human settlements
Social Behavior Energetic, large troops (up to 200), rival groups fight Flexible, more miniature soldiers (up to 50), males leave at maturity Female-bonded, playful males Females are affectionate, and males are competitive
Diet Fruits, roots, bark, and insects Mainly fruits, young leaves, and sometimes farm crops Leaves, fruits, insects, rocks/dirt Primarily leaves, sometimes bread/biscuits
Interesting Facts Cheek pouches, urban adaptability Males help care for the young in the troop Eat toxic leaves with neutralizing gum Associated with the Hindu god Hanuman, rapid movement

 

Red panda

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The Red Panda is a mammal found in the Himalayas. They have reddish-brown fur, short legs, and a long tail.

They eat bamboo and help with seed dispersal and pest control. Red Pandas are vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect them.

Feature Description
Classification Order: Carnivora, Family: Ailuridae
Habitat Himalayan region (Nepal, Sikkim, Myanmar, China)
Population in Nepal 317-582 individuals (estimated)
Lifespan 15 years
Appearance Round head, triangular ears, short legs, shaggy tail, reddish-brown fur (except face and lower body, which are whitish)
Size Height: 0.4 m, Length: 0.7 m, Tail: 0.4 m
Weight 3-4 kg
Diet Primarily bamboo
Conservation Status IUCN Red List: Vulnerable, Appendix I of CITES
Legal Status in Nepal Protected (Appendix I) under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973
Threats Habitat loss, hunting, competition
Conservation Efforts Protected areas, anti-poaching measures, and research

 

Bengal foxes

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The Bengal Fox is a small fox found in the Indian subcontinent. Their sandy brown fur, black-tipped tail, and ears make them distinct.

They play a vital role in ecosystem balance by controlling rodents. However, habitat loss, poisoning, and hunting pose potential threats.

Conservation efforts are crucial for their survival.

Feature Description
Scientific Name Vulpes bengalensis
Size Height: 40-50 cm, Weight: 3-5 kg
Color Sandy brown/greyish with light underbelly
Distinctive Features Black-tipped tail and ears
Habitat Grasslands, scrub forests, wetland fringes (Terai region)
Behavior Crepuscular/nocturnal, monogamous pairs, opportunistic feeders
Diet Insects, fruit, small birds, rodents, eggs, carrion
Reproduction Gestation: 50 days, Litter size: 4 pups
Conservation Status Most Minor Concern (IUCN)
Threats Habitat loss, poisoning, and hunting
Human-Wildlife Interactions Conflicts over poultry (mitigated by reinforced coops, guard dogs, and compensation)
Research & Monitoring Limited need for increased surveys and awareness
Wildlife Tourism Viewing opportunities in parks like Chitwan, Bardia, and Suklaphanta (responsible practices required)

 

Birds

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Nepal has various bird species in different habitats, including wetlands, forests, grasslands, and urban areas.

The data shows the most common orders are Passeriformes, Anseriformes, Ciconiiformes, Columbiformes, and Coraciiformes.

Species Scientific name Nepali name Locations (Altitude) Dates (Year)
Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula कालीजुरे हाँस (Kalijure Haans) Nagdaha, Lalitpur, Nepal (1,375m) 9 July, 2022
Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus बगाले सिमकुखुरा (Bagale Simkukhura) Nagdaha, Lalitpur, Nepal (1,375m); Ghodaghodi Lake, Kailali, Nepal (200m) 9 July, 2022; 11 May, 2013
White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus सिमकुखुरा Sim Kukhura Nagdaha, Lalitpur, Nepal (1,375m); Taudaha, Kathmandu, Nepal (1,300m) 9 July, 2022; 16 November, 2014
Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis सानो माटिकोरे (Sano Matikore) Nagdaha, Lalitpur, Nepal (1,375m); Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (170m) 10 July, 2022; 30 April, 2013
Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus जलअप्सरा (Jalapsara) Nagdaha, Lalitpur, Nepal (1,375m) 9 July, 2022
Pin-striped Tit Babbler Macronus gularis पीतोदर फिस्टेभ्याकुर (Pitodar Fiste Bhyakur) Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (315m) 21 August, 2022
Changeable Hawk Eagle Nisaetus Linnaeus शदलचील (Sadal Cheel) Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (315m) 20-21 August, 2022
Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus रातो जुनबकुल्ला (Rato Junbakulla) Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (315m) 20 August, 2022
Black-headed Munia Lonchura malacca कालोटाउके मुनियाँ (Kalotauke Munia) Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (315m) 21 August, 2022
Asian Plain Martin Riparia chinensis भित्तेगौंथली (Bhitte Gauthali) Bardiya National Park, Bardiya, Nepal (315m); Sauraha, Chitwan, Nepal (189m) 21 August, 2022; 26 May

 


 

Blue Sheep

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

Blue Sheep hunting in Nepal is a top-tier experience that the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve offers. The hunt is regulated to ensure sustainable conservation efforts.

It includes trekking, camping, and guided stalking of Blue Sheep found at high altitudes (3,000-5,500m) in mountainous terrain. Only limited permits are issued, making it an exclusive and thrilling challenge.

Aspect Key Information
Nepali Name Nawar (नाउर )
Location Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal
Species Himalayan Blue Sheep (Bharal)
Price Contact the organizer for information
Transportation Helicopter to reserve, then hiking/trekking
Accommodation Camping
Activities Trekking, camping, hunting, and wildlife observation
Permits The limited number is issued annually by the Nepal government
Physical demand High (steep hikes, rugged terrain)
Challenge Level High (physically and mentally demanding)
Unique selling point Exclusive, regulated experience, challenging adventure

 

Himalayan Monal

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The national bird of Nepal is polygamous, shy, terrestrial, and vocal during flight. Its habitat includes alpine and sub-alpine slopes and rhododendron forests (seasonal).

It feeds on tubers, insects, grubs, grasses, seeds, berries, and mosses. The bird lays 4-6 eggs in ground nests during May/June, with a 28-day incubation period.

Its distribution includes Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Myanmar. In Nepal, the bird is a widespread resident (3300-4750m in summer, 2500m in winter) and faces threats of hunting and trapping (local consumption, feathers).

The global population is unknown, but 3500-5000 birds are estimated to live in Nepal. The bird is protected under Appendix I and is categorized as IUCN Least Concern and IUCN Nepal Near Threatened.

Aspect Information
Common Name Himalayan Monal, Impeyan Pheasant
Scientific Name Lophophorus impejanus
Order/Family Galliformes/Phasianidae
Habitat Alpine/sub-alpine slopes, rhododendron forests
Behavior Polygamous, shy, terrestrial, vocal
Diet Tubers, insects, grubs, seeds, berries, moss
Breeding Ground nests, 4-6 eggs, 28-day incubation
Distribution Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar
Distribution in Nepal Widespread resident (3300-4750m, 2500m winter)
Threats Hunting, trapping
Population Unknown globally, 3500-5000 in Nepal
Conservation Status IUCN Least Concern, IUCN Nepal Near Threatened
Legal Status in Nepal Protected (Appendix I)

 


 

Himalayan tahr

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The Himalayan tahr is a large mammal with even-toed hooves native to the Himalayas in southern Tibet, northern India, western Bhutan, and Nepal.

Unfortunately, the population of this animal is declining due to hunting and loss of habitat, which is why it is listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List.

Aspect Information
Species Himalayan Tahr
Scientific Name Hemitragus jemlahicus
Habitat Rugged Himalayas
Conservation Status Near Threatened (IUCN)
Threats Uncontrolled hunting, other factors
Protected Area Sagarmatha National Park
Location Solu-Khumbu district, Nepal
Area 124,400 hectares
Elevation Range Up to 6,000 meters
Notable Features Mount Everest (8,848 m), glaciers, and valleys
Rare Species Snow leopard, red panda
Established 1976
Residents Over 2,500 Sherpa people
Focus Nature and culture

 

  National Park in Nepal  

Park Name Location Area (km2) Established Date Notable Features
Shey Phoksundo National Park Dolpa district 3,555 2040 BS

(1984 AD)

Phoksundo Lake, Himalayan tahr
Langtang National Park Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts 1,710 2031 BS

(1976 AD)

Langtang Himal, Langtang Valley
Makalu Barun National Park Sankhuwasabha, Solukhumbu districts 1,500 2048 BS

(1991 AD)

Makalu-Barun Valley, Makalu Himal
Sagarmatha National Park Solu-Khumbu district 1,148 2032 BS

(1976 AD)

Mount Everest, Khumbu Glacier, Annapurna Himal
Bardia National Park Bardiya district 968 2032 BS

(1976 AD)

Karnali River, Royal Bengal Tigers
Chitwan National Park Chitwan district 932 2030 BS

(1973 AD)

Narayani River, rhinoceros, tigers
Banke National Park Banke district 550 2067 BS

(2010 AD)

Rapti River, wild elephants
Khaptad National Park Bajhang and Bajura districts 225 2042 BS

(1984 AD)

Khaptad Hills, Himalayan tahr
Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park Kathmandu district 159 2058

2002

Shivapuri Hills, Nagarjun Forest
Rara National Park Jumla district 106 2032 BS

(1976 AD)

Rara Lake, Himalayan tahr
Suklaphanta National Park Kanchanpur district 305 (2017 AD) Mahakali River, rhinoceros
Parsa National Park Bara district 627 (2017 AD) Rapti River, rhinoceros

 

Note:

Shey Phoksundo National Park: The Biggest National Park in Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park: World Heritage Site since 1979 AD

Chitwan National Park: First National Park of Nepal and a World Heritage site since 1984 AD

Rara National Park: A Small National Park of Nepal

 


 

 Wildlife reserve in Nepal 

Wildlife Reserve Location Area (km2) Key Features
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Eastern Nepal Approx. 175 Important Bird Area with diverse avian species

Habitat for the endangered water buffalo, wild Asian elephant, and Gangetic dolphin

Ramsar site for the conservation of wetlands

Parsa Wildlife Reserve Central Nepal Approx. 499 Home to the elusive Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros

Diverse flora and fauna, including over 300 bird species

Habitat for other mammals like a leopard, sloth bear, and various deer species

Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve Far Western Nepal Approx. 305 The oldest wildlife reserve in Nepal

A significant population of the endangered swamp deer

Rich biodiversity with species like the Bengal tiger, leopard, and wild elephant.

 


 

 Conservation Areas in Nepal 

Conservation Area Location Area (km2) Established Date Key Features
Annapurna Conservation Area Central Nepal 7629 2049 BS It encompasses the Annapurna mountain range

Rich biodiversity, including diverse flora and fauna.

A popular trekking destination with cultural and natural attractions

Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) Eastern Nepal 2035 2054 BS Surrounded by the Kanchenjunga mountain, the third-highest peak globally

Home to diverse flora, fauna, and indigenous communities

Offers stunning landscapes and trekking opportunities

Gaurisankhar Conservation Area Central Nepal 2179 2067 BS Named after the sacred Gaurisankar peak

Features diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows and glaciers

Provides habitat for various wildlife species

Api Nampa Conservation Area Far Western Nepal 1903 2067 BS It encompasses the Api and Nampa peaks

Rich in biodiversity with unique flora and fauna

Remote and pristine region attracting nature enthusiasts

Manaslu Conservation Area Central Nepal 1663 2055 BS Surrounded by the Manaslu mountain, the eighth-highest peak globally

Offers trekking routes with cultural and natural significance

Habitat for snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr

Krishnasar Conservation Area Not specified 1595 2065 BS Information not provided

Further details are needed for a comprehensive summary

 


 

 Hunting Reserve in Nepal 

Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Nepal Wildlife
Nepal Wildlife

The only legal hunting reserve in Nepal

Located in the western part of Nepal

Established to promote sustainable and controlled hunting activities

Biodiversity includes the Himalayan tahr, blue sheep (bharal), goral, and other species

Aims to generate revenue for local communities while supporting conservation efforts

Location Established Area (km2)
Western Nepal
(Banglung, Myagdi, Rukum)
2044 BS (1987 AD) 1,325

 

 

 

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