Kaziranga National Park 800083 224738238 2008-07-10T05:24:02Z Vgranucci 3469966 dab fix {{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction |type = national park |native_name = Kaziranga National Park |other_name = কাজিৰঙা ৰাষ্ট্ৰীয় উদ্যান |iucn_category = II |state_name = Assam |district=&nbsp;&nbsp;'''[[Golaghat District|Golaghat]]''', '''[[Nagaon district|Nagaon]]''' | |nearest_city = [[Golaghat]] |latd=26 |latm=40 |lats=00 |longd=93 |longm=21 |longs=00 |skyline = Assam 042 yfb edit.jpg |skyline_caption = Flooded grasslands in Kaziranga National Park |altitude=80 | area_total=430 | precip= 2220 | temp_summer= 37 | temp_winter= 5 | |established_title = Established |established_date = 1974 |blank_title_1 = Visitation |blank_value_1 = 5,228<ref>{{cite web <!-- -->|title = Golaghat district Profile <!-- -->|publisher = Golaghat District Administration <!-- -->|url= http://golaghat.nic.in/ata.htm <!-- -->|accessdate = 2007-03-31 }}</ref> (2005-06) |blank_title_2 = Governing body |blank_value_2 = [[Government of India]], [[Government of Assam]] |inset_map_marker = yes |website= http://www.kaziranga100.com/ }} '''Kaziranga National Park''' ({{lang-as|কাজিৰঙা ৰাষ্ট্ৰীয় উদ্যান}}, ''Kazirônga Rastriyô Uddan'', [[help:IPA|pronounced]] {{Audio-IPA|Kaziranga-pronounce.ogg|/kaziɹɔŋga ɹastɹijɔ udːan/}}) is a [[National park of India|national park]] in the [[Golaghat district|Golaghat]] and [[Nagaon district]]s of [[Assam]], [[India]]. It is a [[World Heritage Site]], and two-thirds of the world's [[Indian Rhinoceros|Great One-horned Rhinoceros]]es live in the park.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/6564337.stm |work=BBC News |title=Assam rhino poaching 'spirals' |author=Bhaumik, Subir |date=[[17 April]] [[2007]] |accessdate=2007-04-28}}</ref> Kaziranga has the highest density of [[Bengal tiger|tiger]]s among [[protected area]]s in the world and was declared a [[Tiger Reserve]] in 2006. The park has large breeding populations of [[Asian Elephant|elephants]], [[Asiatic Water Buffalo|water buffalo]] and [[swamp deer]]. Kaziranga is recognised as an [[Important Bird Area]] by [[Birdlife International]] for conservation of avifaunal species. The park has achieved notable success in [[wildlife conservation]] compared to other protected areas in [[India]]. Located on the edge of the [[Eastern Himalaya]] [[biodiversity hotspot]], the park combines high-species diversity and visibility. Kaziranga is a vast expanse of tall [[elephant grass]], [[marshland]] and dense [[tropical moist broadleaf forests]] crisscrossed by four major rivers, including the [[Brahmaputra River|Brahmaputra]], and has numerous [[beel|small bodies]] of water. Kaziranga has been the theme of several books, documentaries and songs. The park celebrated its centenary in 2005 after its establishment in 1905 as a [[reserve forest]]. ==Etymology== Though the [[etymology]] of the name Kaziranga is not certain, there exist a number of possible explanations. According to one legend, a girl named Ranga, from a nearby village, and a youth named Kazi, from [[Karbi Anglong District|Karbi Anglong]], fell in love. This match was not acceptable to their families, and the couple disappeared into the forest, never to be seen again. The forest was then named after them.<ref>{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park-Myth and Mysteries | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Myth.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref> According to another legend, [[Srimanta Sankardeva]], the 16th century [[Vaisnavism|Vaisnava]] saint-scholar, once blessed a childless couple, Kazi and Rangai, and asked them to dig a big pond in the region so that their name would live on. Testimony to the history of the name can be found in some records, which state that once, while the [[Ahom Dynasty|Ahom king]] [[Pratap Singha]] (17th century) was passing by the region, he was particularly impressed by the taste of fish and on inquiry, he was told it came from Kaziranga.<ref name="un7">{{cite web | last = Mathur | first = V.B. | coauthors = Sinha, P.R. and Mishra, Manoj | title = UNESCO EoH Project_South Asia Technical Report No. -7 -Kaziranga National Park | publisher = UNESCO |url=http://www.enhancingheritage.net/docs/UNESCOEoH_Project_South_Asia_Technical_Report_07_v1.pdf | format =PDF | accessdate = 2007-02-28|pages= pp. 15&ndash;16 }}</ref> However, some historians believe that the name Kaziranga was derived from the Karbi Word ''Kajir-a-rang'', which means "the village of Kajir (kajiror gaon)". Among the [[Karbi]]s, Kajir is a common name for a girl child,<ref>{{cite web | title = Karbis of Assam | publisher = worldpress.com | url= http://karbi.wordpress.com | accessdate = 2007-05-19 }}</ref> and it was believed that a woman named Kajir once ruled over the area. Fragments of monoliths associated with Karbi rule found scattered in the area seem to bear testimony to this assertion. Kaziranga could also mean the "Land of red goats (Deer)", as the word ''Kazi'' in the [[Karbi]] language means "Goat", and ''Rangai'' means "Red".<ref name="un7"/> ==History== {{Main|History of Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Franz von Lenbach Portrait Lady Curzon.jpg|thumb|[[Mary Curzon, Baroness Curzon of Kedleston|Mary Victoria Leiter]], the wife of the [[Governor-General of India|Viceroy of India]], [[George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston|Lord Curzon]], is credited with starting the movement for conservation of rhinoceroses.]] The history of Kaziranga as a protected area can be traced back to 1904, when [[Mary Curzon, Baroness Curzon of Kedleston|Mary Victoria Leiter]], the wife of the [[Governor-General of India|Viceroy of India]], [[George Curzon, 1st Marquess Curzon of Kedleston|Lord Curzon]], visited the area.<ref>{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park Cenetary Celebration Website | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref> After failing to spot a rhinoceros, for which the area was renowned, she persuaded her husband to take urgent measures to protect the dwindling species.<ref name = "bbc">{{cite news | last =Bhaumik | first =Subir | title = Kaziranga's centenary celebrations | publisher =[[BBC News]] | date =[[2005-02-18]] | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/low/south_asia/4274927.stm | accessdate = 2007-02-25 }}</ref> On [[June 1]], [[1905]], the Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest was created with an area of {{convert|232|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite news | last = Talukdar | first = Sushanta | title = Waiting for Curzon's kin to celebrate Kaziranga | publisher =[[The Hindu]] | date =[[2005-01-05]] | url =http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/01/05/stories/2005010503052000.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-24 }}</ref> Over the next three years, the park area was extended by {{convert|152|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}}, to the banks of the [[Brahmaputra River]].<ref name= "kazi100">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park-History and Conservation | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Conservation%20Management.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref> In 1908, Kaziranga was designated a Reserve forest. In 1916, it was converted to a game sanctuary—The Kaziranga Game Sanctuary—and remained so till 1938, when hunting was prohibited and visitors were permitted to enter the park.<ref name= "kazi100"/> The Kaziranga Game Sanctuary was renamed the Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950 by P.D. Stracey, the forest conservationist, in order to rid the name of hunting connotations.<ref name= "kazi100"/> In 1954, the government of Assam passed the Assam (Rhinoceros) Bill, which imposed heavy penalties for rhinoceros poaching.<ref name= "kazi100"/> 14 years later, in 1968, the state government passed 'The Assam National Park Act of 1968', declaring Kaziranga a designated national park.<ref name= "kazi100"/> The 430 km² (166 mi²) park was given official status by the central government on [[February 11]], [[1974]]. In 1985, Kaziranga was declared a [[World Heritage Site]] by [[UNESCO]] for its unique natural environment.<ref name = "un"> {{cite web | title = UN Kaziranga Factsheet| publisher =[[UNESCO]] | url= http://www.unep-wcmc.org/sites/wh/kazirang.html | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref> Kaziranga has witnessed several natural and man-made calamities in recent decades. Floods caused by overflowing of river Brahmaputra have led to significant losses in animal life.<ref name="unrevised"> [http://www.unep-wcmc.org/sites/wh/kazirang.html Kaziranga Factsheet (Revised)], [[UNESCO]], Retrieved on [[2007-02-27]] </ref> Encroachment by humans along the periphery has also led to a diminished forest cover and a loss of habitat.<ref name="unescotech">{{rp|pp. 20&ndash;21}}{{cite web | last = Mathur | first = V.B. | coauthors = Sinha, P.R. and Mishra, Manoj | title = UNESCO EoH Project_South Asia Technical Report-Kaziranga National Park | publisher = UNESCO |url=http://www.enhancingheritage.net/docs/UNESCOEoH_Project_South_Asia_Technical_Report_04_v1.pdf | format =PDF | accessdate = 2007-02-28 }}</ref> An ongoing separatist movement in Assam by the [[United Liberation Front of Asom]] (ULFA) has crippled the economy of the region,<ref>{{cite web | last =Deka | first = Arup Kumar | title = ULFA & THE PEACE PROCESS IN ASSAM | publisher = ipcs.org |url=http://www.ipcs.org/IPCS-Special-Report-21.pdf |pages= pp 1&ndash;2 | format =PDF | accessdate = 2007-05-12}}</ref> but Kaziranga has remained unaffected by the movement; in fact, instances of rebels from the United Liberation Front of Assam protecting the animals, and in extreme cases killing the poachers, have been reported since the 1980s.<ref name = "bbc"/> The park celebrated its centenary with much fanfare in 2005, inviting descendants of Lord Curzon for the celebrations.<ref name = "bbc"/> In early 2007, two rhinoceros and elephants were relocated to [[Manas National Park]], the first instance of relocation of elephants between national parks in [[India]].<ref>{{cite news | last = Bhattacharjee | first = Gayatri | title = Animals relocated to Manas National Park | publisher =[[NDTV]] | date =[[2007-03-20]]| url =http://www.ndtv.com/environment/WILDLIFE.asp?id=102370&callid=1 | accessdate = 2007-04-11 }}</ref> ==Geography== {{Main|Geography of Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Kaziranga-National-Park-map-en-mod.svg|thumb|300px|Map of the Kaziranga National Park]] Kaziranga is located between latitudes 26°30' N and 26°45' N, and longitudes 93°08' E to 93°36' E within two districts in the [[India]]n state of [[Assam]]—the [[Kaliabor subdivision]] of [[Nagaon district]] and the [[Bokakhat subdivision]] of [[Golaghat district]].<ref name = "un"/> It is approximately {{convert|40|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} in length from east to west, and {{convert|13|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} in breadth from north to south.<ref name=lahan>{{Citation |last = Lahan|first = P|last2 =Sonowal|first2 = R.| title = Kaziranga WildLife Sanctuary, Assam. A brief description and report on the census of large animals | journal = Journal of the [[Bombay Natural History Society]]|volume = 70|issue =2|pages = 245–277 |date=March 1972}}</ref> Kaziranga covers an area of {{convert|378|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}}, with approximately {{convert|51.14|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}} lost to erosion in recent years.<ref name=lahan/> A total addition of {{convert|429|km2|sqmi|0|abbr=on}} along the present boundary of the park has been made and notified with separate national park status to provide extended habitat for increasing population of wildlife or as a corridor for safe movement of animals to Karbi Anglong Hills.<ref name="unescoreport"/> {{rp|p.06}} Elevation ranges from {{convert|40|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|80|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name = "un"/> The park area is circumscribed by the Brahmaputra River, which forms the northern and eastern boundaries, and the [[River Mora Diphlu|Mora Diphlu]], which forms the southern boundary. Other notable rivers within the park are the [[River Diphlu|Diphlu]] and [[River Mora Dhansiri|Mora Dhansiri]].<ref name="unescotech"/> {{rp|p.05}} Kaziranga has flat expanses of fertile, [[alluvial soil]] formed by [[erosion]] and silt deposition by the Brahmaputra.<ref name = "un"/> The landscape consists of exposed [[sandbar]]s, riverine flood-formed lakes known as ''[[beel]]s'' (which make up 5% of the surface area),<ref name = "un"/> and elevated regions known as ''chapories'' which provide shelter for animals during floods. Many artificial ''chapories'' have been built with the help of the [[Indian Army]] for the animals' safety.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20060501222012/http://www.wildphototoursindia.com/kaziranga_national_park.htm Kaziranga National Park]. WildPhotoToursIndia(Through Archive.org). Retrieved on [[2007-02-27]]</ref><ref name="unsummary">{{rp|p.03}} {{cite web | title = State of Conservation of the World Heritage Properties in the Asia-Pacific Region –Kaziranga National Park | work = | publisher =UNESCO | date = | url =http://whc.unesco.org/archive/periodicreporting/APA/cycle01/section2/337-summary.pdf | format =PDF | accessdate = 2007-05-09 }}</ref> Kaziranga is one of the largest tracts of protected land in the sub-Himalayan belt, and due to the presence of highly diverse and visible species, has been described as a "[[biodiversity hotspot]]".<ref>{{cite news |last = Phatarphekar|first = Pramila N.|title = Horn of Plenty|publisher = [[Outlook India]] |date = [[2005-02-14]]|url = http://www.sosrhino.org/news/rhinonews021405.php|accessdate = 2007-02-26 }}</ref> The park is located in the [[Indomalaya ecozone]], and the dominant [[biome]]s of the region are [[Brahmaputra Valley semi-evergreen forests]] of the [[tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests]] biome and a frequently flooded variant of the [[Terai-Duar savanna and grasslands]] of the [[tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands]] biome. ==Climate== {{main|Climate of Kaziranga National Park}} The park experiences three seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. The winter season, between November and February, is mild and dry, with a mean high of {{convert|25|°C|°F|0|lk=on}} and low of {{convert|5|°C|°F|0|lk=on}}.<ref name = "un"/> During this season, ''beels'' and ''[[nallah]]s'' (water channels) dry up.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.06}} The summer season between March and May is hot, with temperatures reaching a high of {{convert|37|°C|°F|0|lk=on}}.<ref name = "un"/> During this season, animals are usually found near water bodies.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.06}} The rainy monsoon season lasts from June to September, and is responsible for most of Kaziranga's annual rainfall of {{convert|2220|mm|in|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name = "un"/> During the peak months of July and August, three-fourths of the western region of the park is submerged due to the rising water level of the Brahmaputra. The flooding causes most animals to migrate to elevated and forested regions outside the southern border of the park, such as the [[Mikir Hills|Mikir hills]].<ref name = "un"/> However, occasional dry spells create problems as well, such as food shortages for the wildlife in the park.<ref name=dryspell>{{cite news | author = AFP English Multimedia Wire | title = Rare rhinos in India face food shortage | url = http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P1-127919619.html | publisher = HighBeam Research, Inc | date = [[29 August]] 2006 | accessdate = 2007-04-25 }}</ref> ==Fauna== {{Main|Fauna of Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Kazi rhino edit.jpg|thumb|[[Indian Rhinoceros|Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros]].]] [[Image:Wild Asiatic Water Buffalo - Female with calf at Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India.JPG|thumb|[[Wild Asiatic Water Buffalo]] - Female with calf at Kaziranga National Park]] Kaziranga contains significant breeding populations of 35 mammalian species,<ref name="mamlist">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park- Mammals Checklist | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Manals%20Checklist.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref> of which 15 are [[threatened]] as per the [[IUCN Red List]].<ref name = "un"/> The park has the distinction of being home to the world's largest population of the [[Indian Rhinoceros|Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros]] (1,855),<ref name = "tiger"> {{cite news | last = Hussain | first = Syed Zakir | title = Kaziranga adds another feather - declared tiger reserve | publisher = Indo-Asian News Service| date = [[2006-08-10]] | url = http://www.savethetigerfund.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&CONTENTID=2738 | accessdate = 2007-02-26 }}</ref><ref name = "un"/> [[Wild Asiatic Water Buffalo]] (1,666)<ref name=buffalo>'Wild buffalo census in Kaziranga', The Rhino Foundation for Nature in NE India, Newsletter No. 3, June 2001</ref> and [[Swamp Deer|Eastern Swamp Deer]] (468).<ref name = "trib">{{cite news | last = Rashid| first = Parbina | title = Here conservation is a way of life | publisher = [[The Tribune]] | date = [[2005-08-28]] | url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050828/spectrum/main2.htm | accessdate = 2007-08-26}}</ref> Significant populations of large herbivores include elephants (1,940),<ref name="elesurvey"> {{Citation | title =Elephant Survey in India | publisher =Ministry of Environment and Forests, [[Government of India]] | year =2005| url = http://envfor.nic.in/pe/census_ereserves2005.pdf |pages= p. 01 | format =[[PDF]]| accessdate = 2007-02-26 }}</ref> [[gaur]] (30) and [[Sambar Deer|sambar]] (58). Small herbivores include the [[Indian Muntjac]], [[wild boar]] and [[hog deer]].<ref name="animalsurvey">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park- Animal Survey | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Animal%20Census.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref><ref name = "un"/> Kaziranga is one of the few wild breeding areas outside [[Africa]] for multiple species of large cats such as [[Indian Tiger]]s and [[Indian Leopard|Leopards]].<ref name="mamlist"/> Kaziranga was declared a [[Tiger Reserve]] in 2006 and has the highest density of tigers in the world (one per five km²), with a population of 86, as per the 2000 census.<ref name = "tiger"/> Other [[felid]]s include the [[Jungle Cat]], [[Fishing Cat]] and [[Leopard Cat]]s.<ref name="mamlist"/> Small mammals include the rare [[Hispid Hare]], [[Indian Gray Mongoose]], [[Small Indian Mongoose]]s, [[Large Indian Civet]], [[Small Indian Civet]]s, [[Bengal Fox]], [[Golden Jackal]], [[Sloth Bear]], [[Chinese Pangolin]], [[Indian Pangolin]]s, [[Hog Badger]], [[Chinese Ferret Badger]]s and [[Hylopetes|Particolored flying squirrel]]s.<ref name = "un"/><ref name="mamlist"/><ref name="kolbirds">[http://www.kolkatabirds.com/kaziranga.htm Kaziranga], Kolkata Birds, Retrieved on [[2007-04-08]].</ref> Nine of the 14 [[primate]] species found in India occur in the park.<ref name="bbc"/> Prominent among them are the [[Assamese Macaque]], [[Lutung|Capped]], [[Golden Langur]], as well as the only [[ape]] found in India, the [[Hoolock Gibbon]].<ref name="kolbirds"/><ref name="mamlist"/><ref name = "un"/> Kaziranga's rivers are also home to the endangered [[Ganges Dolphin]].<ref name = "un"/> [[Image:Coracias benghalensis.jpg|thumb|left|An [[Indian Roller]] at Kaziranga]] Kaziranga has been identified by [[Birdlife International]] as an [[Important Bird Area]].<ref name="kaziavi">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park-Avifauna List | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Avifauna.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-24 }}</ref> It is home to a variety of migratory birds, water birds, predators, scavengers and game birds. Birds such as the [[Lesser White-fronted Goose]], [[Ferruginous Duck]], [[Baer's Pochard]] [[duck]] and [[Lesser Adjutant]], [[Greater Adjutant]], [[Black-necked Stork]] and [[Asian Openbill]] [[stork]] migrate from [[Central Asia]] to the park during winter.<ref name="forktail">{{rp|pp.07-10}}{{Citation | last =Barua | first =M. | last2 =Sharma | first2= P. | title = Birds of Kaziranga National Park, India | journal =Forktail | volume =15 | issue = | pages =47–60 | publisher =Oriental Bird Club | year= 1999 | url = http://www.orientalbirdclub.org/publications/forktail/15pdfs/Barua-Kaziranga.pdf| format = [[PDF]] | accessdate = 2007-02-26}}</ref> Riverine birds include the [[Blyth's Kingfisher]], [[White-bellied Heron]], [[Dalmatian Pelican]], [[Spot-billed Pelican]], [[Spotted Greenshank]] and [[Black-bellied Tern]].<ref name="forktail"/>{{rp|p.10}} [[Birds of prey]] include the rare [[Eastern Imperial Eagle|Eastern Imperial]], [[Greater Spotted Eagle|Greater Spotted]], [[White-tailed Eagle|White-tailed]], [[Pallas's Fish Eagle]], [[Grey-headed Fish Eagle]], and the [[Lesser Kestrel]].<ref name="forktail"/> {{rp|pp.03-04}} Kaziranga was once home to seven species of [[vulture]]s, but the vulture population reached a near extinction by supposedly feeding on animal carcasses containing the drug [[Diclofenac]].<ref name="vulture"/> Only the [[Indian Vulture]], [[Slender-billed Vulture]], and [[Indian White-rumped Vulture]] have survived.<ref name="vulture">R Cuthbert, RE Green, S Ranade, S Saravanan, DJ Pain, V Prakash, AA Cunningham (2006) "''Rapid population declines of Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and red-headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) in India''", Animal Conservation 9 (3), 349–354. doi:10.1111/j.1469-1795.2006.00041.x [http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1469-1795.2006.00041.x?journalCode=acv] Retrieved on [[2007-03-09]]</ref> Game birds include the [[Swamp Francolin]], [[Bengal Florican]] and [[Pale-capped Pigeon]].<ref name="forktail"/>{{rp|p.03}} Other families of birds inhabiting Kaziranga include the [[Great Indian Hornbill]] and [[Wreathed Hornbill]], [[Old World babbler]]s such as [[Jerdon's Babbler|Jerdon’s]] and [[Marsh Babbler]]s, [[weaver bird]]s such as the common [[Baya Weaver]], threatened [[Finn's Weaver]]s, [[Thrush (bird)|thrush]]es such as [[Hodgson's Bushchat]] and [[Old World warblers]] like the [[Bristled Grassbird]]. Other threatened species include [[Black-breasted Parrotbill]] and the [[Rufous-vented Prinia]].<ref name="forktail"/>{{rp|p.07-13}} Two of the largest snakes in the world, the [[Reticulated Python]] and [[Python sebae|Rock Python]], as well as the longest venomous snake in the world, the [[King Cobra]], inhabit the park. Other snakes found here include the [[Indian Cobra]], [[Monocled Cobra]], [[Daboia|Russell's Viper]] and the [[Common Krait]].<ref name="reptilelist">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park-Reptiles List | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Reptiles%20checklist.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-24 }}</ref> [[Monitor lizard]] species found here include the [[Bengal monitor]] and the [[Water Monitor]].<ref name="reptilelist"/> Other reptiles include fifteen species of [[turtle]], such as the [[Endemism|endemic]] [[Kachuga sylhetensis|Assam Roofed Turtle]] and one species of tortoise, the [[Brown Tortoise]].<ref name="reptilelist"/> 42 species of fish are found in the area including the [[Tetraodon]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park-Fish List | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities | url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/Fishes%20Checklist.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-24 }}</ref> {{See also|List of mammals in Kaziranga National Park|List of reptiles in Kaziranga National Park| List of fishes in Kaziranga National Park| List of birds in Kaziranga National Park}} ==Flora== [[Image:Assam 028 bcs edit.jpg|thumb|Grasslands and deciduous forests of Kaziranga]] Four main types of vegetation types exist in the park.<ref>Talukdar, B. (1995). '' Status of Swamp Deer in Kaziranga National Park''. Department of Zoology, Guwahati University, Assam.</ref> These are [[Flooded grasslands and savannas|alluvial inundated grassland]]s, [[Tropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands|alluvial savanna woodland]]s, [[Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests|tropical moist mixed deciduous forests]] and [[Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests|tropical semi-evergreen forests]]. Based on [[Landsat]] data for 1986, percent coverage by vegetation is: tall grasses 41%, short grasses 11%, open jungle 29%, swamps 4%, rivers and water bodies 8%, and sand 6%.<ref name="kushwaha">Kushwaha, S.& Unni, M. (1986). Applications of remote sensing techniques in forest cover monitoring and habitat evaluation - a case study at Kaziranga National Park, Assam, in, Kamat, D.& Panwar, H.(eds), Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Using Remote Sensing Techniques. [[Indian Institute of Remote Sensing]] / [[Wildlife Institute of India]], Dehra Dun. pp. 238&ndash;247</ref> There is a difference in altitude between the eastern and western areas, with the western side being at a lower altitude. The western reaches of the park are dominated by grasslands. Tall elephant grass is found on higher ground, while short grasses cover the lower grounds surrounding the beels or flood-created ponds.<ref name = "un"/> Annual flooding, grazing by herbivores and [[controlled burn]]ing maintains and fertilizes the grasslands and reeds. Common tall grasses are [[Saccharum spontaneum|sugarcanes]], [[Imperata cylindrica|spear grass]], [[Arundo donax|Elephant Grass]] and the [[Phragmites|Common Reed]]. Numerous [[forb]]s are present along with the grasses. Amidst the grasses, providing cover and shade are scattered trees—dominant species including [[Careya arborea|Kumbhi]], [[Indian gooseberry]], the [[Bombax ceiba|cotton]] tree (in savanna woodlands), and [[Dillenia|Elephant apple]] (in inundated grasslands).<ref name = "un"/> Thick evergreen forests, near the Kanchanjhuri, Panbari and Tamulipathar blocks, contain trees such as ''[[Aphanamixis polystachya]], [[Talauma hodgsonii]], Dillenia indica, [[Garcinia]] tinctoria, [[Ficus]] rumphii, [[Cinnamomum]] bejolghota'', and species of [[Syzygium]]. Tropical semi-evergreen forests are present near Baguri, Bimali and Haldibari. Common trees and shrubs are ''[[Albizia]] procera, [[Duabanga]] grandiflora, [[Lagerstroemia speciosa]], [[Crateva religiosa|Crateva unilocularis]], [[Sterculia]] urens, [[Grewia]] serrulata, [[Mallotus (plant)|Mallotus]] philippensis, [[Bridelia]] retusa, [[Aphania]] rubra, [[Leea]] indica'' and ''Leea umbraculifera''.<ref> Jain, S.K. and Sastry, A.R.K. (1983). ''Botany of some tiger habitats in India''. Botanical Survey of India, Howrah. p71 . </ref> There are many different aquatic floras in the lakes, ponds and along the river shores. The [[invasive species|invasive]] [[Water Hyacinth]] is very common, often choking the water bodies, but it is cleared during destructive floods.<ref name = "un"/> Another invasive species, ''[[Mimosa invisa]]'', which is [[toxic]] to herbivores, was cleared by Kaziranga staff with help from the [[Wildlife Trust of India]] in 2005.<ref> ''[http://www.wildlifetrustofindia.org/html/reports/Silent_Stranglers.pdf Silent Stranglers, Eradication of Mimosas in Kaziranga National Park, Assam]''; Vattakkavan et al; Occasional Report No. 12, [[Wildlife Trust of India]], pp. 12&ndash;13([[PDF]]). Retrieved on [[2007-02-26]]</ref> ==Administration== {{main|Governance of Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Assam 057.jpg|thumb|A board proclaiming the biological heritage of the Park]] The Wildlife wing of the forest department of the Government of Assam is responsible for the administration and management of Kaziranga, which is headquartered at [[Bokakhat]].<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.05}} The administrative head of the park is the director, who is a conservator-level officer. A divisional forest officer is the administrative chief executive of the park. He is assisted by two officers with the rank of assistant conservator of forests. The park area is divided into four ranges, overseen by range forest officers.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.11}} The four ranges are the Burapahar, Baguri, Central, and Eastern. They are headquartered at Ghorakati, Baguri, Kohora, and Agoratoli, respectively. Each range is further sub-divided into beats, headed by a forester, and sub-beats, headed by a forest guard.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.11}} The park receives financial aid from the State Government as well as the [[Ministry of Environment and Forests (India)|Ministry of Environment and Forests]] of [[Government of India]] under various Plan and Non-Plan Budgets. Additional funding is received under the [[Project Elephant]] from the Central Government. In 1997–1998, a grant of [[US$]] 100,000 was received under the Technical Co-operation for Security Reinforcement scheme from the [[World Heritage Fund]].<ref name="unsummary"/>{{rp|p.02}} Additional funding is also received from national & international [[Non-governmental organizations]]. ==Conservation management== {{Main|Conservation Management of Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Kaziranga-census-results.svg|thumb|Census figures for elephant and rhinoceros in Kaziranga]] Kaziranga National Park has been granted maximum protection under the Indian law for wildlife conservation. Various laws, which include the ''Assam Forest Regulation of 1891'' and the ''Biodiversity Conservation Act of 2002'' have been enacted for protection of wildlife in the park.<ref name="unsummary"/>{{rp|p.01}} Poaching activities, particularly of the rhinoceroses for its horn, has been a major concern for the authorities. Between 1980 and 2005, 567 rhinoceroses were hunted by poachers.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.10}} Following a decreasing trend for the past few years, 18 one-horned rhinoceroses were killed by poachers in 2007.<ref>{{cite news | title = Another rhino killed in Kaziranga| publisher = [[Times of India]]| date = [[2008-02-06]] | url = http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Another_rhino_killed_in_Kaziranga/articleshow/2759996.cms| accessdate = 2008-02-06 }}</ref> Reports have suggested that there are links between these poaching activities and funding of [[Islamist terrorism#Organisation|Islamic militant groups]] in [[Bangladesh]] connected to [[Al Qaida]].<ref>{{cite news | title = Poachers kill Indian Rhino | publisher = [[New York Times]]| date = [[2007-04-17]] | url = http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/world/AP-India-Rhino-Poaching.html?_r=4&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin | accessdate = 2007-04-17 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | last = Roy | first = Amit | title = Poaching for bin Laden, in Kaziranga | publisher = [[The Telegraph (Kolkata)|The Telegraph]]| date = [[2006-05-06]] | url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070506/asp/nation/story_7740713.asp | accessdate = 2007-05-06 }}</ref> Preventive measures such as construction of anti-poaching camps and maintenance of existing ones, patrolling, intelligence gathering and control over the use of firearms around the park have reduced the number of casualties.<ref name="kazihero">{{cite web| title = Kaziranga National Park-Heroes of Kaziranga | publisher = Kaziranga National Park Authorities| url= http://www.kaziranga100.com/The%20Heroes.htm | accessdate = 2007-02-23 }}</ref><ref name=telegraph070424>{{cite news | title = Two poachers killed in Kaziranga - Tight security measures, better network yield results at park | url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070425/asp/northeast/story_7692141.asp | publisher = The Telegraph | date = [[April 25]] 2007 | accessdate = 2007-04-25 }}</ref> [[Image:Kazi fire.jpg|thumb|left|Controlled burning of grass in Kaziranga]] Perennial flooding and heavy rains have resulted in death of wild animals and damage to the conservation infrastructures.<ref name="unescoreport">{{rp|p.21}}{{cite paper | title = Section II: Periodic Report on the State of Conservation of Kaziranga National Park, India | publisher =[[UNESCO]] | date =2003 | url =http://web.archive.org/web/20060524154236/http://whc.unesco.org/archive/periodicreporting/cycle01/section2/337.pdf | format =[[PDF]] | accessdate = 2007-02-28 }}</ref> To escape the water-logged areas, many animals migrate to elevated regions outside the park boundaries where they are susceptible to hunting, hit by speeding vehicles, or subject to reprisals by villagers for damaging their crops.<ref name="kazi100"/> To mitigate the losses, the authorities have increased patrols, purchased additional speedboats for patrol, and created artificial highlands for shelter.<ref name="kazi100"/> Several corridors have been set up for the safe passage of animals across National Highway–37 which skirts around the southern boundary of the park.<ref name="highway">Bonal, BS & Chowdhury, S (2004), ''Evaluation of barrier effect of National Highway37 on the wildlife of Kaziranga National Park and suggested strategies and planning for providing passage: A feasibility report to the Ministry of Environment & Forests'', Government of India.</ref> To prevent the spread of diseases and maintain the genetic distinctness of the wild species, systematic steps such as immunization of livestock in surrounding villages, and fencing of sensitive areas of the park, which are susceptible to encroachment by local cattle are undertaken periodically.<ref name="kazi100"/> [[Water pollution]] due to run-offs from pesticides from tea gardens, and a petroleum refinery at [[Numaligarh]], are posing a hazard to the ecology of the region.<ref name="unescotech"/>{{rp|p.24}} Invasive species such as [[Mimosa]] and wild rose have posed a threat to the native plants in the region. To control the growth and irradiation of invasive species, research on biological methods for controlling weeds, manual uprooting and weeding before seed settling are carried out at regular intervals.<ref name="kazi100"/> Grassland management techniques, such as [[controlled burning]], are effected annually to avoid [[forest fire]]s.<ref name="un"/> ==Visitor activities== {{main|Tourism in Kaziranga National Park}} [[Image:Bonoshree lodge in Kaziranga.jpg|thumb|Bonoshree Tourist Lodge in Kaziranga, maintained by [[Government of Assam]] ]] [[Wildlife#Wildlife tourism .26 Ecotourism|Observing the wildlife]], including [[birding]], is the main visitor activity in and around the park. Guided tours by elephant or [[Jeep]] are available. [[Hiking]] is prohibited in the park to avoid potential man-animal conflicts. [[Observation tower]]s are situated at Sohola, Mihimukh, Kathpara, Foliamari and Harmoti for wildlife viewing. The [[Siwalik Hills|Lower Himalayan peaks]] frame the park's landscape of trees and grass interspersed with numerous [[beel|ponds]]. An interpretation centre is being set up at the Bagori range of Kaziranga, to help the visitors know more about the park.<ref>{{cite news | title = Information Safari | publisher =[[The Telegraph (Kolkata)|The Telegraph]] | date =[[2007-03-31]] | url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1070331/asp/northeast/story_7583733.asp | accessdate = 2007-04-10 }}</ref> The park remains closed for visitors from mid-April to mid-October due to monsoon rains. Four tourist lodges at Kohora and three tourist lodges inside the park are maintained by the [[Department of Environment and Forests, Government of Assam]]. Private resorts are available outside the park borders.<ref name="unescoreport"/>{{rp|p.19}} Increase in tourist inflow has led to the economic empowerment of the people living at the fringes of the park, by means of tourism related activities.<ref name="un7"/>{{rp|pp.16-17}} A survey of tourists notes that 80 percent found rhino sightings most enjoyable and that foreign tourists were more likely to financially support park protection and employment opportunities, while local tourists favored veterinary services.<ref>{{Citation |last1=Shrivastava |last2=Heinen |first1=Rahul |first2=Joel |authorlink= |title=A pilot survey of nature-based tourism at Kaziranga National Park and World Heritage Site, India |year=2003 |publisher={{cite web |url=http://research.amnh.org/biodiversity/symposia/archives/tigerintheforest/posters.html |title= American Museum of Natural History: Spring Symposium |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20051230155026/http://research.amnh.org/biodiversity/symposia/archives/tigerintheforest/posters.html |archivedate=2005-12-30}} |location= |isbn= }}</ref> ==Transport== Authorised guides of the forest department accompany all travellers inside the park. [[Mahout]]-guided elephant rides and [[Jeep]] or other [[4WD]] vehicles rides are booked in advance.<ref name="indiatourism"/> Starting from the Park Administrative Centre at [[Kohora]], these rides can follow the three motorable trails under the jurisdiction of three ranges — Kohora, Bagori and Agaratoli.<ref name="indiatourism"/> These trails are open for light vehicles from November to mid May. Visitors are allowed to take in their own vehicles only when accompanied by guides.<ref name="indiatourism"/> Buses owned by [[Assam State Transport Corporation]] and private agencies between [[Guwahati]], [[Tezpur]] and Upper Assam stop at the main gate of Kaziranga on NH-37 at Kohora.<ref name="indiatourism"/> The nearest town is Bokakhat {{convert|23|km|mi|0}} away. Major cities near the park are Guwahati ({{convert|217|km|mi|0}}) and [[Jorhat]] ({{convert|97|km|mi|0}}). [[Furkating]] {{convert|75|km|mi|0}}, which is under the supervision of [[Northeast Frontier Railway]], is the nearest railway station.<ref name="indiatourism"/> [[Jorhat Airport]] at Rowriah ({{convert|97|km|mi|0}} away), [[Tezpur Airport]] at Salonibari (approx {{convert|100|km|mi|0}} away) and [[Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport]] in Guwahati (approximately {{convert|217|km|mi|0}} away) are the nearby airports.<ref name="indiatourism">{{cite web | title = Kaziranga National Park | publisher = Indian Tourism | url= http://www.india-tourism.com/EN/kaziranga_national_park.html | accessdate = 2007-07-23 }}</ref> ==In popular culture== Kaziranga has been the theme, or has been mentioned in, several books, documentaries, and songs. The park first gained prominence after [[Robin Banerjee]] (a doctor turned photographer and filmmaker) produced a documentary titled ''Kaziranga'', which aired on [[Berlin]] television in 1961 and became a runaway success.<ref>[http://golaghat.gov.in/PERSONAL.HTM Personalities of Golaghat district]. Retrieved on [[2007-03-22]]</ref><ref>[http://golaghat.gov.in/rabin.htm Robin Banerjee]. Retrieved on [[2007-03-22]]</ref><ref>[http://www.sentinelassam.com/sentinel_en/archives/aug0703/story5.htm ''Lover of the wild, Uncle Robin no more'']{{dead link|date=April 2008}}. [[The Sentinel (Gauhati)]] [[2003-08-06]] Retrieved on [[2007-03-22]]</ref> [[United States|American]] [[science fiction authors|science fiction]] and [[fantasy author]], [[L. Sprague de Camp]] wrote about the park in his poem, "[[Kaziranga, Assam (poem)|Kaziranga, Assam]]" . It was first published in 1970 in ''[[Demons and Dinosaurs]]'', a [[poetry]] collection, and was reprinted as ''Kaziranga'' in [[Years in the Making: the Time-Travel Stories of L. Sprague de Camp]] in 2005.<ref>[http://www.nesfa.org/press/Books/deCamp-1.html Years in the Making: the Time-Travel Stories of L. Sprague de Camp]. NESFA.org. Retrieved on [[2007-02-26]]</ref> ''Kaziranga Trail'' ([[Children's Book Trust]], 1979), a [[children's literature|children's storybook]] by Arup Dutta about rhinoceros poaching in the national park, won the [[Shankar's Award]].<ref> Khorana, Meena. (1991). ''The Indian Subcontinent in Literature for Children and Young Adults''. Greenwood Press</ref> The Assamese singer [[Bhupen Hazarika]] refers to Kaziranga in one of his songs.<ref name = "trib">{{cite news | last = Rashid| first = Parbina | title = Here conservation is a way of life | publisher = [[The Tribune]] | date = [[2005-08-28]] | url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2005/20050828/spectrum/main2.htm | accessdate = 2007-08-26}}</ref> The [[BBC]] [[conservationist]] and travel writer [[Mark Shand]] authored a book and the corresponding BBC documentary ''[[Queen of the Elephants]]'', based on the life of the first female mahout in recent times—[[Parbati Barua]] of Kaziranga. The book went on to win the 1996 [[Thomas Cook Travel Book Award]] and the [[:fr:Prix littéraire de Trente millions d'amis|Prix Litteraire d'Amis]], providing publicity simultaneously to the profession of mahouts, and to Kaziranga.<ref> {{cite news|last=Bordoloi|first=Anupam|title =Wild at heart|publisher =[[The Telegraph (Kolkata)|The Telegraph]]|date=[[2005-03-15]]|url = http://www.telegraphindia.com/1050313/asp/look/story_4480991.asp|accessdate = 2007-02-26 }}</ref> ==See also== *[[Climate of Kaziranga National Park]] *[[National Parks of India]] *[[Biodiversity of Assam]] *[[Manas National Park]] ==Notes== {{reflist|2}} == Further information == {{sisterlinks}} *{{Citation |last1=Barthakur |last2=Sahgal |first1=Ranjit |first2=Bittu |authorlink= |title=The Kaziranga Inheritance |year=2005 |publisher=Sanctuary Asia |location=Mumbai |isbn= }} *{{Cite book |last=Choudhury |first=Anwaruddin |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= The Birds of Assam |year= 2000|publisher=Gibbon Books and World Wide Fund for Nature |location= Guwahati|isbn= }} *{{Cite book |last= Choudhury |first= Anwaruddin |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= Birds of Kaziranga National Park: A checklist |year=2003 |publisher= Gibbon Books and The Rhino Foundation for Nature in NE India |location=Guwahati |isbn= }} *{{Cite book |last= Choudhury |first= Anwaruddin |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= Kaziranga Wildlife in Assam |year=2004 |publisher= Rupa & Co|location=India |isbn= }} *{{Cite book |last=Dutta |first=Arup Kumar |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= Unicornis: The Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros |year=1991 |publisher= Konark Publication |location=New Delhi |isbn= }} *{{Cite book |last=Gee |first=E.P. |authorlink= |coauthors= |title= The Wild Life of India |year=1964 |publisher= Collins |location=London |isbn= }} *''[[Jaws of Death (documentary)|Jaws of Death]]'' — a 2005 documentary by Gautam Saikia about Kaziranga animals being hit by vehicular traffic while crossing National Highway 37, winner of the Vatavaran Award. *{{Cite book |last=Oberai |first=C.P. |authorlink= |coauthors=B.S. Bonal |title=Kaziranga: The Rhino Land |year=2002 |publisher=B.R. Publishing |location=New Delhi |isbn= }} *{{Citation |last1=Shrivastava |last2=Heinen |first1=Rahul |first2=Joel |authorlink= |title=A microsite analysis of resource use around Kaziranga National Park, India: Implications for conservation and development planning |year=2007|publisher=[http://jed.sagepub.com/content/vol16/issue2/ Journal of Environment and Development] 16(2): 207-226 |location= |isbn= }} *{{Citation |last1=Shrivastava |last2=Heinen |first1=Rahul |first2=Joel |authorlink= |title=Migration and Home Gardens in the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam, India |year=2005 |publisher=[http://shell.cas.usf.edu/~jea/index.html Journal of Ecological Anthropology] 9: 20-34 |location= |isbn= }} *{{Citation |last1=Shrivastava |last2=Heinen |first1=Rahul |first2=Joel |authorlink= |title=A pilot survey of nature-based tourism at Kaziranga National Park and World Heritage Site, India |year=2003 |publisher={{cite web |url=http://research.amnh.org/biodiversity/symposia/archives/tigerintheforest/posters.html |title= American Museum of Natural History: Spring Symposium |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20051230155026/http://research.amnh.org/biodiversity/symposia/archives/tigerintheforest/posters.html |archivedate=2005-12-30}} |location= |isbn= }} ==External links== {{IndicText}} * [http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/337/ Kaziranga National Park in UNESCO List] * [http://www.kaziranga100.com/ Kaziranga Centenary 1905&ndash;2005] * {{cite web |url=http://www.wcmc.org.uk/protected_areas/data/wh/kazirang.html |title= World Conservation Monitoring Centre |archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070322040002/http://www.wcmc.org.uk/protected_areas/data/wh/kazirang.html |archivedate=2007-03-22}} * [http://www.assamforest.co.in/NP_Sanctuaries/np_Kaziranga.php Department of Environment and Forests (Government of Assam) - Kaziranga] * {{wikitravel}} {{Kaziranga National Park}} {{World Heritage Sites in India}} {{National Parks of India}} {{featured article}} [[Category:Geography of Assam]] [[Category:National parks of India]] [[Category:Tourism in Assam]] [[Category:Kaziranga National Park| ]] {{Link FA|mr}} [[cs:Národní park Kaziranga]] [[de:Kaziranga-Nationalpark]] [[es:Parque Nacional de Kaziranga]] [[fr:Kaziranga National Park]] [[hi:काजी़रंगा राष्ट्रीय उद्यान]] [[it:Parco nazionale di Kaziranga]] [[mr:काझीरंगा राष्ट्रीय उद्यान]] [[nl:Kaziranga]] [[pl:Park Narodowy Kaziranga]] [[pt:Parque Nacional de Kaziranga]] [[fi:Kazirangan kansallispuisto]] [[sv:Kaziranga nationalpark]] [[te:కాజీరంగా]]