Kabini and Nagarhole will forever be known as the home of the tiger and the elephant. These enigmatic large mammals have forever been associated with these tropical deciduous forests, even before the time of the Mysore Maharajas. The elephants, having been visitors for centuries, continue to use their ancient migratory routes to Kabini, and the tiger found a safe haven in Nagarhole thanks to the efforts of Project Tiger and other conservation efforts.
But it’s easy to forget that Kabini also plays host to an abundance of wildlife apart from large mammals. Nearly 650sq km of reserve forest holds within it a treasure trove of flora and smaller fauna. The next time you are on a safari with the naturalists from our resort in Kabini, take some time off from the mainstream and explore this large “small” world!
Flora:
Rarely do people talk about flora when visiting a forest even though it is the densest form of life there! Kabini is abundant with teak and sal forests, along with a multitude of ficus trees. There are also bamboo thickets scattered around the reserve, the favorite haunts of the Flycatcher birds or a Magpie Robin. Sandalwood is another treasured species here thanks to the favorable conditions for growth. Crocodile Bark trees proliferate throughout the forests as well, and come winter, the Flame Of The Forest trees burst forth with their radiant orange, blanketing the jungle floor!
Birds:
Birdwatchers rejoice. The backwaters behind our resort in Kabini coupled with the forest itself make for the perfect spots for birding, whether you are a beginner or an amateur. Fish Owls, Crested Serpent Eagles, and other raptors keep a watchful eye over the backwaters. The shrill meowing of a peafowl will pierce through the air on a morning safari in Kabini. Even the organic gardens at our resort in Kabini play host to a variety of smaller passerine birds like Bulbuls, Sunbirds, Wagtails, and more. The backwaters are also where you’ll find Bar Headed Geese during their long haul and also the occasional River Tern. Right near our Wonky Monkey Bar, you may find the occasional Pond Heron or Purple Swamphen pecking at the hyacinth in the water!
Butterflies:
Few people realize how important butterflies are to a large ecosystem like Kabini. They are umbrella species; their survival and populations will eventually dictate the wellbeing of all the species. Nagarhole has populations of the Southern Birdwing, the state butterfly, and one of India’s largest species of butterflies. Come monsoons, you’ll also be able to witness Tiger Butterfly migrations as well. The flowering plants at our resort in Kabini also play host (both as a larval plant and a source of food) to many species of butterfly-like Castors, Swallowtails, Danaid Eggfly, and several others.
Reptiles:
You would think that reptiles are found everywhere. But the backwaters of Kabini play host to special neighbors like Marsh Crocodiles! Spectacled Cobras and Russell’s Vipers are common neighbors thanks to our proximity with fields (if ever you see one during your stay at our resort in Kabini, do not be alarmed and simply alert the staff who will ensure it gets safely removed). Rock Pythons are also found in Kabini although not as commonly! Freshwater turtles are also a common sight in ponds throughout Nagarhole and on the backwater
Smaller Mammals:
Let’s not forget the small mammals of Kabini! River Otters are one of the most popular visitors at our resort in Kabini (although they do maintain their distance). Their populations are the indicators of a healthy ecosystem. Giant Squirrels can be heard playing with each other and running around on the Nagarhole canopy. A mouse deer (or Chevrotain as they are actually called) might just surprise you with an appearance.
Arachnids:
Spiders and scorpions are the hidden hunters of Kabini. These critters are either extremely shy or easy to miss or prefer to come out during nighttime. Giant Wood Spiders blend into the environment and seldom move, for instance. You may see the burrow of a tarantula or a funnel-web spider on the ground!
Fish:
Lastly, Kabini’s backwaters are also hosted by a variety of aquatic life. Mahaseer were once found here although their populations have diminished now, similar species of carp can be found here.
