Nepal wildlife is amazingly beautified 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 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:
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:
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:
From pit vipers to monitor lizards, Nepal shelters many reptiles, with some unique species like the Sitana fusca and the Cyrtodactylus nepalensis.
Birds:
The country boasts over 900 bird species, including the national bird, the danphe (a pheasant). The spiny babbler is endemic to Nepal.
Additional Fauna:
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):
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 embodies 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.
Most popular Wildlife of Nepal:
Bengal tiger:
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 national population by 2022 (Nepal) |
| IUCN Red List status | Endangered |
| CITES Appendix | I |
Elephants:
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, 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 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 |
| Legal Status (CITES) | Appendix I (wild) & II (domestic) |
Snow leopard:
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, 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, 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:
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:
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 offers a comprehensive overview of the rhino population in each area.
National Rhino Count 2021
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Rhino Population (2021) | 752 individuals |
| Distribution by Location |
|
| 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 |
|
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
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: 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, dams |
| Species in Nepal | Marsh mugger (vulnerable), gharial (critically endangered) |
| Threats | Habitat loss, poaching, pollution, fishing practices |
| Conservation efforts | Protected areas (Chitwan, Bardia National Parks), Gharial Breeding Center, community involvement |
| Population trend | Slow recovery (increased from 645 in 2015 to 752 in 2021) |
| Challenges | Industrial pollution, hunting, unsustainable fishing |
Deer:
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 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 Bengal tiger |
| Large | Swamp Deer (Barasingha) | Rucervus duvaucelii | Vulnerable | Found only in Nepal and India, population decline due to hunting and habitat loss |
Monkeys:
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, tropical forests | Forests | Himalayas, mixed forests | Deciduous forests, shrublands, 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, 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 young in the troop | Eat toxic leaves with neutralizing gum | Associated with the Hindu god Hanuman, rapid movement |
Red panda
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 National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973 |
| Threats | Habitat loss, hunting, competition |
| Conservation Efforts | Protected areas, anti-poaching measures, research |
Bengal foxes
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, 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 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
Blue Sheep hunting in Nepal is a top-tier experience the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve offers. The hunt is regulated to ensure sustainable and 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, wildlife observation |
| Permits | Limited number 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
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, grassroots, 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
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, 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: Biggest National Park in Nepal
- Sagarmatha National Park: World Heritage Site since 1979 AD
- Chitwan National Park: First National Park of Nepal and World Heritage site since 1984 AD
- Rara National Park: Small National Park of Nepal
Wildlife reserve in Nepal:
| Wildlife Reserve | Location | Area (km2) | Key Features |
| Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve | Eastern Nepal | Approx. 175 |
|
| Parsa Wildlife Reserve | Central Nepal | Approx. 499 |
|
| Shukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve | Far Western Nepal | Approx. 305 |
|
Conservation Areas in Nepal:
| Conservation Area | Location | Area (km2) | Established Date | Key Features |
| Annapurna Conservation Area | Central Nepal | 7629 | 2049 BS |
|
| Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) | Eastern Nepal | 2035 | 2054 BS |
|
| Gaurisankhar Conservation Area | Central Nepal | 2179 | 2067 BS |
|
| Api Nampa Conservation Area | Far Western Nepal | 1903 | 2067 BS |
|
| Manaslu Conservation Area | Central Nepal | 1663 | 2055 BS |
|
| Krishnasar Conservation Area | Not specified | 1595 | 2065 BS |
|
Hunting Reserve in Nepal:
Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve
- Only legal hunting reserve in Nepal
- Located in the western part of Nepal
- Established to promote sustainable and controlled hunting activities
- Biodiversity includes 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 |
