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India: A Treasure Trove of Wildlife and Biodiversity
Discover India’s Remarkable Wildlife and Immense Ecosystems
India, one of the 17 mega-biodiverse countries in the world, accounts for around 7-8% of the world’s recorded species whilst occupying only 2.4% of the Earth’s land area. Home to approximately 410 species of mammals, including the iconic Indian elephant, the country also hosts rare and exotic species like the greater one-horned rhino, the nilgiri tahr, the Bengal tiger, the Asiatic lion, the black buck, the lion-tailed macaque, and the snow leopard.
Experience the remarkable wildlife and immense ecosystems of India and contribute to the protection and care of rescued Indian animals by joining our Elephant & Bear Volunteer Project.
Explore India’s Diverse Habitats and Rich Ecosystems
With its vast geographical scale and varied topography, India boasts a range of unique habitats and ecosystems that host an array of diverse wildlife species. From the frozen peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the tropical rainforests of the south, from the arid deserts of Rajasthan in the west to the fertile floodplains of the Brahmaputra in the east, India’s diverse habitats are a testament to its rich biodiversity.
The Himalayan region, known for its high-altitude ecosystem, is home to the elusive snow leopard and the Himalayan tahr, among other species adapted to cold, mountainous conditions. The lush Western Ghats and the Northeastern states, identified as biodiversity hotspots, house numerous endemic species, including the lion-tailed macaque and the majestic great Indian hornbill.
India’s expansive grasslands provide a sanctuary for species like the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, the Bengal tiger, and the Asiatic lion, while the desert ecosystem of Rajasthan supports hardy species like the Indian gazelle and the great Indian bustard.
India’s vast coastline and its associated coastal and marine ecosystems host an array of species, including Olive Ridley turtles and various species of dolphins and whales. The country’s extensive network of rivers and wetlands play host to a variety of water birds, gharials, and the Ganges river dolphin.
India’s unique island ecosystems, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, boast a high level of endemism, housing species like the Andaman day gecko and the Nicobar pigeon that are found nowhere else in the world.
These diverse habitats and ecosystems provide critical homes for wildlife, helping to sustain the country’s remarkable levels of biodiversity. However, they are increasingly under threat due to human activity and climate change, making conservation efforts more important than ever.
Join the Efforts to Protect India’s Wildlife and Biodiversity
India’s wildlife and biodiversity face threats from large-scale development projects, landscape conversion into farmland, industrial sites or residential areas, poaching, and over-harvesting of forest products. National parks, such as Corbett National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Kanha National Park, and Kaziranga National Park, strive to preserve and rehabilitate the country’s wildlife and biodiversity. However, urgent attention is required to stabilise the future of many animal and plant species due to human interference and climatic conditions.
Get Involved in the Elephant & Bear Volunteer Project
Contribute to wildlife conservation efforts by volunteering at an ethical wildlife rescue and conservation centre in India, helping to conserve elephants and bears. At this project, you will have the opportunity to work with both bears and elephants in an ethical way, allowing these animals to live in natural conditions away from the cruelty of mass tourism. The project is located close to the cities of Agra and Mathura in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, providing you with the chance to visit iconic Mughal architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort during your time off.
The centre, established in 1995, rescues and rehabilitates wildlife in distress in both urban and rural environments throughout India. Injured animals receive medical treatment, and many are released back into the wild. Where this is not possible, permanent homes are provided for the animals at one of the project’s rescue facilities. As a volunteer, you will assist with the conservation and support of bears and elephants at the project’s ethical rescue centres, working alongside experienced animal keepers and the volunteer coordinator.
Experience the wonders of India, make lifelong memories, and contribute to meaningful conservation work with the Elephant & Bear Volunteer Project. Learn more about India’s captivating History and Culture and its fascinating Climate and Geography. Make a real difference and create unforgettable memories with WorkingAbroad.
