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Wildlife of Pench Tiger Reserve

Fauna in Pench

Various incredible animals are the reason behind the charmingness of Pench national park. This wildlife was also included in the “Jungle Book” by Rudyard Kipling. We all know the famous Sherkhan of the book that was inspired by seeing the Bengal Tiger. Then other Baloo the sloth bear, Kaa – the snake, King Louie- the orangutan, Akela – the wolf, Raksha – the wolf, Winifred – the elephant, Rocky – the rhino, etc., were the characters inspired by the park’s wildlife.

100+

Royal Bengal Tiger

325+

Bird Species

200+

Butterfly Species

53+

Reptiles & Amphibians

Mammals

There are around 39 mammals residing in the park. Amongst them, the major ones are Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, Indian wild dogs, Bison, Indian wolf, Spotted deer, and Sambhar deer.

Bengal Tigers

Indian Leopard

Striped Hyena

Spotted Deer

Indian Gaur

Golden Jackal

Sambhar deer

Birds

Pench will also not disappoint the bird lovers as there are 210 varieties of avifauna. The most famous of them are Indian Pitta, Indian Roller, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Peafowl, Indian Black Ibis, Asian Openbill, Indian Scops Owl, Yellow Crowned Woodpecker, and Rufous Treepie.

Indian Pitta

Indian Roller

Asian Openbill

Peafowl

Racket-tailed Drongo

Indian Scops Owl

Rufous Treepie

Reptiles

Amongst the reptiles, there are around 13 varieties of them that are crawling the lands of the Pench. The most famous ones are Sand Boa, Checkered Keelback, Indian Flapshell Turtle, Russell’s Viper, and Spectacled Cobra.

Sand Boa

Checkered Keelback

Russell’s Viper

Indian Rock Python

Common Krait

Common Vine Snake

Banded Kukri Snake

Spectacled Cobra

FAQs – Wildlife in Pench

What animals can I see in Pench National Park?

Pench is home to tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, jackals, and hyenas. You can also see deer species like sambar, chital, and nilgai, along with over 300 bird species.

Is Pench a good place for tiger sightings?

Yes. Pench has a healthy tiger population and is one of the best reserves in Central India for tiger sightings, especially during the summer months when animals visit water sources.

Are there leopards in Pench?

Leopards are often seen in the park, particularly in hilly and rocky areas. Early morning and late evening safaris increase your chances of spotting them.

What kind of birds can be found in Pench?

Pench is a paradise for bird lovers. You can spot hornbills, crested serpent eagles, racket-tailed drongos, Indian rollers, and many migratory species in winter.

Which zones are best for wildlife sightings in Pench?

Turia and Khursapar zones are the most popular for sightings. Both zones offer diverse habitats and good chances of spotting big cats and other wildlife.

Are night safaris allowed in Pench?

Yes, night safaris are available in some buffer zones. They offer a chance to see nocturnal animals like civets, porcupines, owls, and hyenas.

What is the best time to visit Pench for wildlife viewing?

The park is open from October to June, with the best wildlife sightings from March to May when animals are more active around waterholes.

Are elephants found in Pench?

No, Pench is not a natural habitat for elephants. The park’s main large mammals are tigers, leopards, and herbivores like gaur and deer.

Is Pench suitable for families and first-time visitors?

Yes. Pench is safe, well-managed, and has excellent resorts and guides. It’s a great choice for first-time safari travelers and families.