Kuno National Park, also known as Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, is a protected area located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Spread over an area of 344 square kilometers, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history, geography, wildlife, and attractions of Kuno National Park.
History
Kuno National Park has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The park was established in 1981 as a wildlife sanctuary and was later upgraded to a national park in 2018. The park was initially created to protect the critically endangered Asiatic Lion, which was facing a rapid decline in population due to hunting and habitat loss. The park was selected as a possible translocation site for the Asiatic Lion by the Indian government in 1993, and since then, several lions have been translocated to the park from Gir National Park in Gujarat.
Geography
Kuno National Park is located in the Vindhyan Hills of Madhya Pradesh and is surrounded by a rugged terrain of hills and plateaus. The park is home to several rivers, including the Kuno River, which flows through the park and is a major source of water for the park’s wildlife. The park is divided into two zones, namely the core zone and the buffer zone, each with its own unique flora and fauna.
Wildlife
Kuno National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several endangered species. The park is particularly famous for its Asiatic Lion population, with an estimated 29 lions living in the park. Other predators in the park include leopards, hyenas, and wolves. The park is also home to several species of deer, including the chital, sambar, and nilgai, as well as several species of monkeys and langurs.
In addition to the Asiatic Lion, Kuno National Park is also home to several other endangered species, including the Indian Wolf, Indian Gazelle, and Indian Striped Hyena. The park also has a rich birdlife, with over 160 species of birds recorded in the park.
Attractions
Kuno National Park is a popular tourist destination, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife. The park offers several attractions for visitors, including:
Safari: Visitors can enjoy a safari ride in the park to see the wildlife up close. The park offers different types of safaris, including jeep safaris, elephant safaris, and canter safaris.
Birdwatching: With over 160 species of birds, Kuno National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park offers several birdwatching trails for visitors to explore.
Nature Walks: Visitors can take nature walks in the park to explore the flora and fauna of the park. The park also offers guided nature walks for visitors.
Accommodation: Kuno National Park offers several accommodation options for visitors, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, and forest lodges.
Conclusion
Kuno National Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a unique opportunity to see the critically endangered Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat, along with several other species of wildlife. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history, Kuno National Park is a true gem of India’s wildlife heritage. However, it is important to note that the translocation of the Asiatic Lion to the park is a sensitive issue, and visitors should be respectful of the park’s conservation efforts.