Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is located in southeastern Nepal, and covers an area of approximately 175 square kilometers. The reserve is known for its rich diversity of wildlife, which includes several species of mammals and reptiles. Some of the notable wildlife found in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve include:
Ganges River Dolphin: The Ganges River Dolphin is an endangered species of freshwater dolphin that is found in the Koshi River, which flows through the reserve. These dolphins are known for their long, slender snouts and unique vocalizations.
Indian Rhinoceros: The Indian Rhinoceros, also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros, is a large herbivorous mammal that is found in the grasslands and forests of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. These rhinos can weigh up to 2,300 kg and are known for their distinctive single horn.
Water Buffalo: The Water Buffalo is a domesticated mammal that is commonly found in the grasslands and wetlands of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. These large bovines can weigh up to 1,000 kg and are an important source of food and labor for local communities.
Asian Elephant: The Asian Elephant is a large, herbivorous mammal that is found in the forests of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. These elephants can weigh up to 5,500 kg and are known for their intelligence, sociability, and distinctive long trunks.
Gharial Crocodile: This critically endangered crocodile species can be found in the rivers of the Indian subcontinent, including the Koshi River that runs through the reserve. Gharials can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) in length and weigh over 500 kg (1100 lbs). They are easily recognized by their long, slender snouts filled with sharp teeth, which are adapted for catching fish.
Fishing Cat: A medium-sized wild cat that is adept at swimming and catching fish. They have webbed feet and short, stocky legs, which make them well-suited for their aquatic lifestyle. Fishing cats have a distinctive appearance, with spots and stripes on their coat, and their ears have a white spot on the back. They typically weigh between 5-12 kg (11-26 lbs).
Hog Deer: The Hog Deer is a small deer species that is found in the grasslands and forests of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. These deer can weigh up to 70 kg and are known for their distinctive hog-like appearance and short antlers.
Bengal Fox: This small fox species is found in the Indian subcontinent and can be seen in the open grasslands and scrub forests of Koshi Tappu. They have a reddish-brown coat, long bushy tail, and distinctive black-tipped ears. Bengal foxes are typically around 60 cm (24 inches) in length and weigh between 1.5-3 kg (3.3-6.6 lbs).
Smooth-coated Otter: This otter species can be found in the rivers of the Indian subcontinent, including the Koshi River. They have a smooth, dark brown coat and are known for their playful behavior. Smooth-coated otters can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length and weigh up to 12 kg (26 lbs).
Striped Hyena: A medium-sized carnivore that is found in the Indian subcontinent. They have a distinctive striped coat and are known for their scavenging behavior. Striped hyenas can grow up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) in length and weigh up to 55 kg (120 lbs).
Indian Pangolin: This scaly anteater species is found in the Indian subcontinent and is known for its unique appearance and behavior. They have a tough, armored body and a long, sticky tongue that they use to catch ants and termites. Indian pangolins can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in length, including their tail, and weigh up to 15 kg (33 lbs). They are listed as an endangered species due to poaching and habitat loss.
Marsh Mugger Crocodile: The Marsh Mugger Crocodile is a medium-sized crocodilian that is found in the rivers and wetlands of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. These crocodiles can weigh up to 200 kg and are known for their powerful jaws and ability to blend in with their surroundings.
These are just a few of the many species of wildlife that can be found in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.