Gujarat is a unique state that has many kinds of habitats. These varied land forms include the famous dry deciduous forests like the Gir, majestic grasslands like those found at Velavadar, vast landscapes harbouring rare animals in habitats like the Little Rann of Kutch, wetland habitats such as the Nalsarovar, marine ecosystems such as those found near the Pirotan Islands and the rich moist deciduous forests like those found in the dense forests of the Dangs.

What makes this land so special is that each type of this varied habitat contains a fascinating diversity of wildlife, each related to the other and to its own unique environment. Gujarat’s varied landforms are also home to some extremely rare wildlife. The Asiatic lion is found only in Gir. The wildass is found only in the Rann of Kutch. One of the most threatened birds, the great Indian bustard finds a refuge in certain pockets of protected areas. The world’s only four-horned antelope, the chowsingha is found here in healthy numbers. One of the largest herds of blackbucks grace the grasslands of Velavadar and till recently Gujarat was the place where flamingos nested in huge numbers. Dugong, a marine mammal, which resembles a seal, along with the rare boralia species, have found home in the protected areas of the Marine National Park.

The wildlife is not restricted to National Parks and Sanctuaries alone. Varieties of both resident and migratory birds frequent ponds, lakes and riversides just outside any town and city. Nilgai, jackals, saras cranes and peacocks, along with scores of garden and woodland birds frequent the parks, gardens and the countryside a sure sign that wildlife here is not hunted and persecuted but revered and protected.

Gujarat has declared many of its rich and varied habitats as National Parks and Sanctuaries towards the conservation of the species and for the enjoyment of the visitors who want to make these beautiful places their tourist destinations.

Beautiful habitat such as this waterfall is not a rarity, but are there for the interested tourists to discover In all our National Parks and Sanctuaries.