Fauna of Pench National Park

Prenowned as one of India’s premier wildlife reserves, Pench National Park is a living testament to successful
conservation. Thanks to dedicated efforts in both Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, the population of Royal
Bengal Tigers has grown significantly, making them the undisputed stars of the park. But Pench is far more than
just its tigers — it is home to a spectacular variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, each
contributing to the forest’s rich and balanced ecosystem.

Mammals
At the pinnacle of the food chain, the Royal Bengal Tiger reigns supreme. Pench is also home to other wild cats,
including Leopards, and occasionally, the elusive Black Panther or Black Leopard can be spotted.
Among the herbivores, herds of Indian Spotted Deer (Chital), Sambar Deer, Nilgai, and Indian Bison (Gaur) roam
freely, creating mesmerizing scenes of natural harmony.
Other notable mammals include:
 Indian Wolf
 Wild Dogs (Dholes)
 Sloth Bear
 Wild Boar
 Jungle Cat
 Striped Hyena
 Golden Jackal
 Indian Fox
 Porcupine
 Pangolin
 Barking Deer
 Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha)
 Small Indian Civet & Palm Civet
 Rhesus Macaque & Hanuman Langur
 Indian Grey Mongoose
 Indian Giant Squirrel
 Rusty-Spotted Cat

Birds
Pench is a paradise for bird lovers, sheltering over 300 species of resident and migratory birds. Its diverse
habitats — from dense forests to open grasslands and shimmering water bodies — provide ideal conditions for
avian life.
Common resident birds include:
 Indian Peafowl
 Jungle Fowl
 Indian Roller
 White-throated Kingfisher
 Flame-backed Woodpecker
 Red-wattled Lapwing
 Spotted Dove
 Laughing Dove
During winter, the park becomes a haven for migratory birds, including:
 Indian Pitta
 Malabar Pied Hornbill
 Osprey
 Eagles and Kites
 Brahminy Duck
 Common Pochard
 Bar-headed Goose
 Various species of Vultures
 Coots
These birds play a vital role in pollination, insect control, and seed dispersal, maintaining the ecological balance
of the forest. The Pench River, flowing through the heart of the park, provides a lifeline for both wildlife and
avian species, especially during the dry summer months.

Reptiles and Amphibians
Pench boasts an impressive array of reptiles, including:
 Indian Rock Python
 Cobra
 Russell’s Viper
 Indian Krait
 Common Rat Snake & Cat Snake
You can also encounter Monitor Lizards, Fan-throated Lizards, Chameleons, Indian Garden Lizards, freshwater
turtles, and even mugger crocodiles near water bodies. The park supports a healthy population of amphibians,
especially frogs, which play a crucial role in pest control and maintaining ecological harmony.

Ecological Significance
The rich biodiversity of Pench — from the tiniest insect to the majestic tiger — forms a delicate and
interconnected web of life, sustaining the health of the forest. Every species contributes to the thriving
ecosystem, making Pench National Park a living sanctuary where nature flourishes in its purest form.

Medicinal Plants & Ethnobotany

Pench is a living pharmacy for indigenous tribes like the Gond and Baiga. Many plants hold medicinal and cultural significance, forming a part of traditional healing practices:
 Mahua, Neem, Amla (Aonla), Arjun
 Amaltas, Curcumin (from turmeric), Sarpgandha, Ashwagandha, Satavar
These plants highlight the sustainable knowledge systems of local communities and the deep connection between humans and nature.

Rare and Unique Trees
Some of Pench’s trees add a mystical charm to its forests:
 Ghost Trees (Sterculia urens) – with pale, almost glowing bark, creating a haunting beauty under moonlight
 Crocodile Bark Trees (Terminalia crenulata) – known for their cracked bark resembling crocodile skin

Ground Flora & Understory Vegetation
The forest floor is alive with:
 Grasses
 Shrubs
 Herbs
 Creepers and saplings
This lush undergrowth provides food and shelter for herbivores like deer, gaur, and wild boar,
maintains soil health, and sustains the ecological balance of Pench.

Conclusion

The flora of Pench National Park is not just visually stunning, but ecologically indispensable. From towering teak and majestic sal trees to medicinal herbs treasured by tribal communities, every plant plays a role in sustaining the forest’s dynamic ecosystem. For botanists, nature lovers, and eco-tourists, Pench offers an enriching, immersive experience where every leaf tells a story of life and resilience