Maneaters at Corbett

On my recent birding tours I was saddened to find out that a women had been killed by a tiger or tigress. This happened on the way to Dhikala gate near a village. Though the animal could not be located another killing took place some distance away. One of the incident took place in broad daylight as I heard.

Every year one or two man eating incidence takes place. While most of the cases may be accidental, one or two are premeditated attacks. This does not augur good for the animal. But in most of the tiger reserves in the country the number of people in the buffer zone is very high. The intrusion is on daily basis in the buffer that was supposed to distance human settlements from prime areas. But in recent times there is a murky line that separates the human settlements with habitat.

With conservation efforts the wildlife has saturated buffer zones. Especially in parks like Corbett in Uttaranchal, Kanha, Pench and Bandhavgarh. The status of buffer zones are practically as same as the core. New guidelines are called for for mapping our valuable assets. While people have a large land mass to settle, wildlife is surviving in a limited area that too with regular human intrusions. 

Corbett is an exciting birding destination and supports lots of wildlife wild elephants and tigers. More than hundred tigers find home in the preserve. Efficient management is key to conservation success. It is a well managed park as rising population of tigers indicate. But tourism should be managed the way it is being done at Central Indian Tiger Reserves.

All things wild & beautiful

It does not take an acclaimed photographer to capture good wild images. Any one with zeal can deliver amazing pics of our wilderness, animals and birds.

My friend Sandeep is an avid traveler and is well equipped with accessories including a good camera. Here are some of the images he gifted for my blog. These are some of the images taken from his recent visit to Corbett Tiger Reserve in North India.

Death of a tiger? News

Ever since the down slide of the tiger in India has become apparent the casus belli has created deep consternation. First it was the Project Tiger which elated then depressed. Then NTCA and what not. The down slide continues till today.

We keep on reading about death of a tiger or tigress here and there. The same goes for the leopard albeit more extensive. The situation is so precarious that a loss of one tiger in present circumstances is equivalent to hundred. The poaching of tigers in Panna and Sariska is a frightening spectacle since it happened right under the eye of the administration and that too in the core zones. How many poachers have been caught and how many of negligent staff punished. I would love to know!

Question: Who was responsible?
 
The poachers of course &......(sic)?

Question: Tourism (sic)?

Question: Migration?  

Where to? No forest left. 

Question: Disturbance by tourists?

Tigers have bred well in popular tiger reserves despite tourism. Nobody knows what happens in reserves not visited.

Question: Why it happened?

Since 1971 we are still learning and finding.....How to save the tiger?   The down slide continues.

Tiger deaths elsewhere ---- sans territorial fights.... Thank God! They are dying only because of  latter now He! He!   

The down slide continues. Power circle really is more concerned of its vote bank than the tiger? People first...Who owns the Earth?  

Once I had an argument with an important official in conservation regarding search and  punishment of all poachers big and small.

"Put into action law and order!" I suggested.

He just brushed my question aside as absurd. "What are we doing? He said.

But believe me I once mentioned this to FD of a park. He told me bluntly, "The area is so big what can I do?"

We did not discuss "Power Protection" "Negligence" "Political Apathy" "Corruption" "Punishment Posting".

Yes we did discuss "Dilapidated Protection Machinery" "Public Apathy" "Vermin Syndrome" "Pest Syndrome" "Fear of Animals".....  I told him how ineffective beat/forest guards are whence confronting local goons and gangs.

That time there did not appear to be any  regular night patrolling and intelligence collection. Is there now?"

"More concerted efforts sir?" I said.

He just looked at me silently.        

Our last hopes rely on parks like Kanha which have hitherto shown excellence in management. 

The fact is that most of the tiger deaths in India are due to poaching, thanks to our neighbor's eating & treating habits. Man animal conflict is a serious problem. Habitat Loss! Human apathy is one more. Encroaching construction is turning out to be a death knell, a complete shrinkage of natural ecosystem - habitat. Political apathy and management crisis at places. (Read lethargy & negligence) - Death due to negligence - electrocution of tiger in Pench a short distance from Karmajhiri RH.     

How to save the tiger?

Jago re India Jago re!

Micheal Vickers - Save Tiger - Jhurjhurra Tigress

He is an acclaimed wildlife photographer and  a conservationist by heart. His works have been published by reputed organizations like BBC, The Born Free Foundation, Care for the Wild International, The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation and EIA.

Micheal is a lens man with a difference, he clicks for tiger conservation in India. Recently he has passionately appealed to conservationists, tiger lovers to keep pushing for justice for Jhurjhurra tigress and her cubs.

Please find details here:   http://www.tigersintheforest.co.uk/savethetiger.html

It is heartening to note that in our fight to save the tiger in India we are not alone. People like Micheal from all over the World are tackling this incorrigible system alongside to save the tiger from what appears to be a certain extinction.  

I have met many people from other countries besides many of us who are in for tiger conservation and contribute in whatever manner they can. Some name that are familiar to me are Face Book friends.

Amy Goldstein Cohen: Volunteers at local zoo and is up against those who confine tigers in private custody not up to order. She desires to go full steam ahead as to whatever she can do for tigers in India. She wishes to unite all nature lovers, conservationists active in tiger conservation.   

Phil Davis: Runs a charity called Tiger Awareness. He is active in tiger conservation and does a lot good for humanity  around tiger reserves. His website: http://www.tigerawareness.co.uk

Jen Dowdy: is fond of animals and is active campaigner for tiger conservation in online platforms. Passionate about wildlife and tigers she strives hard to save species from extinction. 

There are many other people who do not find mention in this short write up here. They are truly global activist who love and care for all life forms on Earth - God's creation.

Leopard in India:What About it!

Big Cats Too Near

It is a sad story, all the euphoria created by the Project Tiger is gone. Tiger lovers, conservationist, NGOs are having a nightmarish premonition - a mini doomsday. The leopard in India is facing the same fate, perhaps worst. All the attention is centered around the tiger and nothing wrong about it. But it is high time same status is provided to the leopard in India. 

When the Nation talks about Cheetah relocation it only suggests that our conservation is tourism oriented and perhaps leaning on jingoistic pride. There is nothing wrong with well managed tiger tourism since its benefits  are impressive. And there is nothing wrong with possessive approach towards our wild heritage ...but is this enough?   

We who boast so much of belonging to an oldest civilization on Earth. Especially with all shorts of conservation ethos ingrained in the Vedas and Hindu scriptures. Yet we are struggling to save one of the most ecologically important animal on Earth. 

In spite of all the efforts - lot many constructive - we are not succeeding in preserving tiger footsteps from vanishing. Why so? Perhaps if we delve deeper into conserving the leopard lot  more truth will surface. In fact active leopard conservation will open more innovative methods to save the tiger.

The leopard is known to exhibit immense survival extinct, but in spite, it is loosing ground fast in India. The major conflict is with the our society that is concerned about itself and presumes ownership of the Earth as a human prerogative.           

The man animal conflict as regards to the leopard is more intense than with the tiger. By natural instinct the animal avoids conflict with tigers and hence many are forced to survive in outer areas of our forests with dense human population. 

Lets be sure human settlements near forest areas live  with scant regard or even in abject fear of wild animals... more so due to myth, unseen fear and sometimes actual conflict and sufferings. That we have encroached in their land (other life forms) has become a hearsay. The perspective remains the same as it was whence the animals were declared vermin and shot ruthlessly by butchers of the past.     

I have interacted with many villagers around the periphery of tiger habitats,  most of them have no love for the tigers or leopards - expect those benefiting directly from their existence. We have to understand that they are in the same mold as lot many of us are...a snake to be conserved is fine ....as long as it is not in our garden or house. The tigers and leopards are very much in the garden of locals around the periphery of the reserves.  The threat perception exists, walk down to a village where cattle lifter is present or human tragedy has occurred and you will soon find out. Locals can act as big deterrent to poachers.

Only people benefiting from tiger's existence have interest in its survival for the rest it is their own survival that matters and nothing else. (And oops! Tiger lovers, conservationists, NGO and all like minded people are sincerely making efforts to save the species in India).

Would the direct beneficiaries have the same feel for the leopard? Not  so much since the animal is less publicized and less sought after as a  visual delight. Let us be sure people rarely understand ecosystem and food chain concept...it is sentiments that are fueling their conservation ethos. And why not? A large number of people are acting as pressure groups today than earlier. This is thanks to tiger tourism. that imparts  benefits to unemployed  - as forest guides, resort workers, Jeep owners, accommodation providers, retailers and many others. An example of value added conservation for sure.  (Ask a guide at Taj and you will know how much he values the monument.)

In recent news more than hundred fifty leopards have been poached or killed in India. 

The news article will assure you that the leopard is a neglected cousin. Perhaps if we strive hard to conserve this extremely beleaguered animal in India it may throw open new insights in big cat conservation as whole. 

In the present circumstances tiger crisis reeks of multifarious angle - human society, democratic urgency, poaching, Chinese medicine (sic), inherent corruption, conflict and self centered priorities. Our attitude is shameless as perceiving the the Earth as our prerogative... take a peek in every day life opinions, it  will confirm this.  

Where does the buck stop! Will we frame rules that says this is our and this is theirs and this is for sharing. Properly defined extensive inviolate areas are key to wildlife conservation in India. Protected areas mind you cover barely two or three percent of 32 lakh sq km that is India.

Why properly defined? Anyone who has been to Kanha in earlier times knows that some areas were habitats of Indian wolf, hyena and other open country animals. The protection status was created totally bereft of the presence of these animals - areas were humans have moved in now. The animals are scarce now by all means.

Wildlife tourism in India

India is a growing economy and has received lot of accolades for its performance in recent times. Though the boom is more publicized in IT sector the country is progressing in many sectors. Tourism is one such aspect that the country wishes to grow rapidly since comparatively it lags behind many destinations. 

India has lot to offer in tourism thanks to its diversity amazing terrain and amazing society. The Nation changes  every short distance offering a new experience with each step ahead. From picturesque settings to demographic  discoveries of esoteric rites and rituals of changing set of people. Everywhere Incredible India excites with its ever changing facet and mystic.      

Wildlife of India has always attracted naturalists, photographers and in recent times tourists interested in wildlife watching. The tiger safaris are most sought of nowadays much better from hunting safaris in olden times. But the country has much more to offer than just tiger sightings there many more keystone species. 

Apart from tigers, India is home to Asiatic lion, Indian one horned rhino, Indian elephant, Wild ass, Leopard, Bison and many endemic rare species of mammals and reptiles. Birding in India is a growing recreation. The Nationa is home to more than thirteen percent of avian species in the World. Among the reptiles the Gharial and Gengetic dolphin, muggers and slat water crocodile are interesting  animals. The cobra is a legend but the land is home to many interesting species of snakes and turtles. The forests and garden have rich assemblage of butterflies and insects as well. 

All these are hot potatoes for wild life lovers and naturalists not forgetting the ever persistent nature photographers. In India wildlife tours offer much more as the tour operators include historical monuments in the packages. The Taj at Agra and ancient temples of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh are the finest destinations. For a discerning traveler, travel in the country is a study of life itself - diverse yet co-existing. 

Blogging for whole life is not enough to open the Pandora's box the country is. One needs to set foot  here to discover the paradise. The tourism infrastructure is rapidly come on par with International standards  to facilitate the tourists. All type of accommodation and means of transportation are available with ease. The internet facilitates travel in the country - Go online and see for yourself.                    

Cheetah Relocation India

Reintroduction

As per the recent news in The Hindu a plan to reintroduce the Cheetah in India has been cleared by the ministry (MOEF) headed by Hon. Minister. Jairam Ramesh.  This project if really mooted would bring about a paradigm shift in our conservation methodology. Not that things have yet to set in this direction. The debacle at Panna and Sariska have set the ball rolling in the name game of relocation and reintroduction.   

History & Speculation

Historical records in India point out Cheetah to be a popular hunting animal in Mughal Courts. This has led to speculation that Cheetah was imported into India. The locals in India are not able to differentiate between  the leopard and Cheetah easily a reason for further confusion in identification.  On the other hand eminent naturalist writers as Prater visualize it  as moving into India from Ethiopian zoogeographical region as the Asiatic Lion and perhaps the Leopard did way back in time. More proper  terminology would be "spread to".   

Nevertheless Cheetah did inhabit India, and its preferred habitat was low rugged hills and extensive grasslands. The last Cheetah was shot in Chattisgrah at Korwai. Hunting records of Cheetah being shot at Chhindwara and Korwai is bewildering since there are no extensive grasslands there. The area is densely forested and would have been much more heavily forested whence the big cat was hunted. This  would suggest that Indian animal a sub species was highly adaptable and could survive in thickets or small grassland habitats and plains adjoining dense forest canopies.   

This gives rise to question that animal that hunts for survival in extensive grasslands would it be able to survive in forest habitats? Perhaps Kuno appears to be more suitable, but I am sure field biologists must have studied the whole project for viability.  

The ideal prey base for Indian Cheetah would have been deer species of plains like Chinkara,  Barking deer, Black Buck and to lesser extent associates - Chital, Nilgai. So where ever was black buck found, Indian Cheetah was present. as well. Now this is true of Noradehi and other two habitats I am sure. There is a large population of black buck in adjoining open areas and within at Nauradehi WLS. 

Reintroducing Cheetah in India seems to be driven more by sentiments then by practical reality  though I do not hesitate in praising Hon.Minister for his enthusiasm. But with so much stress on endangered tigers would it have been better to divert crucial resource towards tiger conservation? Cheetah could have been introduced after tiger's survival in India had been assured.     

Risk

Introduction of exotic species has proved disaster for many endemic species all over the World. Would this sub species, foreign to Indian ecosystem endanger an already surviving animal in that habitat? Will we be then experiencing a merry go round never ending trap?  For example Chinkara  or Indian gazelle is endangered in Central India and as most of the animals in reserved forests have been hunted down with ease. What will happen to these animals which in small population bracket may not be able to act as effective prey base.  In simple terms they could be hunted to extinction by our foreign friend. 

Susceptibility to disease can put these animals to risk and in turn they could turn out to be carriers of disease which the resident animals may not have immunity  for. 

How will this new sub species fare against tiger and leopards - the latter they could meet in fringes? Ho much time it would take for the reintroduced animal to get acclimatized with the habitat and settle down with competitors?

Man animal conflict is a serious issue at our wildlife places. This will increase further with habitats near to human habitation as in the case of leopard. A greater number of leopards are being killed in India then recorded.    

Conservation record in the state of MP has proven to be dismal, Panna is an example. Would the management be able to cope up with such a complex situation since Cheetah are more habitat specific and  fragile animals and not as adaptable as the leopard. 

Benefits

The benefits are overpowering, for in zealous stage Nauradehi may see relocation of large number of villages (over 60) from its confines. This should have happened much earlier.

Reintroduction will enable increase in conservation efforts at selected destinations. It would also reduce wild tiger safari tourism load in popular tiger reserves as Kanha and Bandhavgarh. These advantages are apparent but then number of questions come a fore.  
 

Tourism will get boost and the local jobs. Rise of land prices will benefit in some way as well, as has happened in Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench. We could take away a small cake of Cheetah safari from Africa?

Most of the villages in Nauradehi WLS are terribly cut off in deep confines, bringing them to main stream with proper subsistence plain would be good. The habitat in turn will benefit with greater inviolate areas for wild species. Tiger's may make a  comeback here since Nauradehi once had large number of tigers. There are vagrant tigers in the WLS as has been reported.

We could boast of India as home of all big cats until......   

       

Pench National Park

Seoni the famous little township in Madhya Pradesh near Jabalpur is surrounded by dense forests that are referred as Seoni Hills. Rudyard Kipling in "Jungle Book"  describes the escapade of child reared by wolf pack. It is said that Lt.Moor a British first sighted Mowgli near the village of Sant Vavadi. Capt. Sleeman wrote an account of Mowgli in his book "Rambles and Recollections". 

Kipling is said to have visited Seoni Hills which were then contiguous with what is now Kanha National Park. The British writer made Mowgli the wolf child immortal by writing "Jungle Book". The Seoni Hills are part of Central Indian Highlands that Capt Forsyth accounted for in his book "The Highlands of Central India". 

The British loved to explore and what better scape than that of "Jewel in the Crown". The exploratory zeal contributed a lot to understanding the natural history of India. The taxonomic classification of  Indian wild animals and birds was efficiently carried out by wild life lovers and English ornithologist during the British Raj.

Pench National Park a tiger reserve is part of Seoni Hills and tigers survive here. A wolf pack was seen on road to Turia Gate from Khawasa few years back. But the expanding humanity is driving peripheral wildlife out of their preferred habitats all over in the tiger reserve.


Pench biodiversity is impressive. A dry deciduous mixed forest, the preserve supports wide variety of Central Indian mammals. The terrain is undulating with low lying hills, grassy valleys and dense forest canopies. It is home to tigers, leopards, wolf, wild dog, bison, sambar deer and four horned deer. Barking deers are sen often while squirrel, jungle cat, nilgai, spotted deer, langur, rhesus macaque, wild boar and jackals are commonly seen. Fox, ratel, civet cats,  hyena, and porcupine are by nature nocturnal. Sloth bear and leopard are seen with luck. Recent leopard sightings have been surprisingly frequent.  

Pench has more than seven hundred bison or gaur. The coarse feeders are a prominent feature of the park with large herds sighted often. The wolf once common is a rare sight suggesting an endangered status. Like is all tiger reserve of Central India hyena is not sighted often. This is due to occupation of open country and scrub forest habitats by villages and resorts in the immediate periphery.

The bird life is rich but requires more work to be done by ornithologists. Raptors are very visible and so are many other birds. Along with Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Nauradehi WLS, Pench is ideal for forest birding.  The latter two offer wetland bird sightings as well. Though very popular for tiger safari birding in the tiger reserves is on increase. Pench offers exciting potential for bird watching tours in Madhya pradesh in India.

Tree line is mix with scattered patches of bamboo perhaps planted . Neither Teak nor Sal dominates here the latter appears to be very scarce.  Lyndia, Saja, Kullu, Harra, Bahera, Dhak, Tendu, Kosum, Salai, Haldu, Bija are common floral elements along with dazzling mix of herbs and shrubs. Grassland and edaphic meadows are feeding grounds of herbivores.       

Pench River is the life line of this ecosystem but dries out to a large extant in summers. The Totlah Doh Hydroelectric Dam has a submergence are of more than fifty square km of what was once the finest forest zone in the reserve. Water holes are scattered but support wildlife in the park. 

Tiger conservation has been successful in the reserve but the danger of poaching are evident as few year back tiger and other animals were electrocuted right next to the Karmajhiri RH. In case of lack of vigilance the National Park could face poaching incidences that could endanger the tiger and other animals.

Pench is accessible from Nagpur airport a good eighty km of drive while it is approx 200 km from Jabalpur which is connected by air service from New Delhi. It is six to seven hours drive to Kanha National Park from here.

Accommodation is in plenty with many jungle resorts available along with luxury hotels and many jungle camps.  Accommodation ranges from budget to super luxurious. During holiday rush one needs to book rooms or jungle plans in advance. The entry to the park is limited an safari should be booked much in advance.

All seasons are good for wildlife watching but winters are best for birding as migrants add up the numbers of species. Combining your tiger safari tour with a visit to Kanha National Park would add to your experience of wildlife safaris in Central India.        

Panna National Park

Situated in Panna District of Madhya Pradesh in Central India this beautiful preserve has been much in the center of controversy. Contrary to claims made by the CCF of MP there were no tigers left in the reserve as declared by a committee report in June 2009. Of late tigers from Bandhavgarh and Kanha have been relocated here in order to restore tiger population. The trans location program is showing success as a tigress has given birth to two cubs. Another tigress is expected to reproduce. 

Panna National Park also tiger reserve along with Sariska highlights the state of tiger conservation in India. The 543 sq.km park lost all its tigers. No attention was paid to dwindling number of tigers as per alarm created by researchers. The authorities were busy with counter claims as usual and in the process the remaining number of tigers fell prey to the poachers with ease.  

Besides tigers (Oof) the park is home to leopards, sloth bear, chinkara, spotted deer, sambar, wild dog, jackal, caracal, wolf, four horned deer, hyena, fox, nilgai and jungle cat. There are more than two hundred bird species that can be found in the reserve along with reptiles and large number of butterflies. 

The dry deciduous forest type are unique with Kardhai forest zones, besides, teak, tendu, mahua, char, kullu, bel, harra and other species. The grasslands are extensive with tall and short grasses.    

Ken River Sanctuary is the life line of this ecosystem and is the habitat of mugger and gharial. The number of gharial is low in this pristine river. More reptiles are being released here in order to restore the ecological balance and save the endangered species. 

Though tiger sightings may not be possible any more in this tiger reserve one can see many wild animals and enjoy bird watching. There are many jungle lodges, hotels and wildlife resorts that offer accommodation outside the park. For inbound tourists package tours are available by tour operators in India. These packages are affordable and well designed.   

Next interesting destination is the Khajuraho Temples which are around 45 km from the National Park. One can easily drive down from Panna to the temples at Khajuraho for sightseeing. The temple complex town has an airport connected with New Delhi, Mumbai and other major towns in India. 

Panna is connected with Satna, Katni, Jhansi rail heads and is about seven hours drive to Bandhavgarh tiger reserve. Panna can also be reached via Jabalpur which is connected to New Delhi by rail and flight service.     

Kanha Wildlife

Though the tiger is the main attraction in Kanha the park is home to many wild animals in India. The most attractive mega fauna is of course the rare hard ground swamp deer. This sub species of deer is found only at Kanha and is surviving precariously after a remarkable come back from brink of extinction. The deer was saved in the nick of the time. 

Indian bison or Gaur is an ox race  and is doing well in the park. Around 1976 disease rinderpest and FPL either of the two wiped out a large population. Thankfully the population has recovered and herds can be seen at Kisli range in summers. There has to be strict implementation of inoculating live stock in the surroundings. 

Samabar deer the largest in the Asia survives in good numbers here and can be seen often especially in the evening hours. Sambar along with the ubiquitous spotted deer constitutes the main prey base of the tigers in the wild.     

On tiger safaris one can see barking deer, four horned deer and of late the mouse deer has been discovered in the park. The leopard is often seen with luck and so is the sloth bear. Wild dogs are seen more often in Kanha and Kisli ranges. Langurs, wild boars, rhesus macaque, jackal and peacock are widespread in the preserve and regularly seen.One can take a peak at the Indian python around the numerous water holes.

During a night safari outside the park confines one can come across many nocturnal animals - civets, hare, ratel, porcupine and perhaps hyena or wolf. Late evening hours are ideal for sighting leopards on night safaris. Park safari inside the park is not allowed hence one should drive along common roads in the periphery. Using flash light is not advisable. 

The ensuing tiger chase prevents experiencing the over all diversity of flora and fauna in the preserve. The focus of attention on tiger safaris is the tiger. This is understandable as the animal holds mesmerizing charisma and a mystic appeal among most humans. Nevertheless once you have encountered a tiger then go in for a holistic appraisal of the landscape, wildlife and bird life in order to make your visit meaningful. 

The tiger is usually sighted on jeep safari in four or five rounds but in most cases  tiger sighting would  take place in one and two rounds. Tiger show much touted as cola show lets many tourists have a close look at this nature's wonder. The sight of the tiger is the wild is amazing experience and turns many into sympathizers of our wilderness.         

For regular visitors the park offers a chance to study Kanha wildlife and birds as amateurs this is good. Awareness of our nature helps us conserve better. There are many wildlife photographers visiting the National Park especially during the hot months of summer.  Summer sunshine and animal congregation  around  water holes is ideal for wildlife and tiger photography.

Birding is exciting in the park with more than two hundred species to be seen during winters. Of late bird watching trips are being organized by tour operators of India. Kanha offers the best in Central India forest birding.

Bengal Tiger: Of reasoning and solutions

The Jhurjura tigress...a tragic event it has once again highlighted the plight of tigers in India. It has also brought to surface how event centric we are and how we fail to take preemptive and proactive action. We believe in reasoning for rational approach and too much at times. Paradoxically whence circumspect evidence is right at our door step we perform the worst. We believe in burying our heads in the sand and hope the rot stems on its own. 

As a mature democracy we show our concerns in debates, discussions, forums and public platforms. - thankfully there is a voice.  The rot continues as intellectual pursuit to ensuing problem intensifies. The answer is not always found, especially in case of ultra revolutionary, anti democratic and anti national contingencies that of late has become day to day phenomena. 

Declining tiger population is akin to state of emergency, it highlights lack of efficacy and incompetence of Governments and administrative setups in the country. It also highlights one basic fact, how localized democratic urgency dominates the whole scenario in India. If the tiger could vote or if it helped brew the local wine, its persecution could not have taken place so mercilessly.  Tiger poaching is an anti national activity -  the animal is our pride and priceless inheritance.             

We are simply unable to take timely proactive or preemptive actions as is evident from our handling of nefarious activities in our surroundings. We lack the will to go for offensive in order to defend. In case of tiger reserves certain communities (e.g.Bel Pardhi) are more inclined to poaching along side network of seasoned criminals, regular poachers and underground traders. Much more can be done to bring these people to boot as they  leave footprints (evidence) whence involved in nefarious activity. Use of snares and electric wires is increasing as means of killing big cats. How the poachers can lay traps without being caught even once is alarming. 

I have seen at Pench, tiger, bear and bison were electrocuted repeatedly at one spot barely  2 km from Karmajhiri R.H. It is reported that snares are being used in Kanha and Satpura tiger reserves. This could be  happening in all protected areas in Central India.  

The cause of the rot is well known, we all know how and why of the decline of tigers and other endangered species in India. Man animal conflicts, peripheral discontents, encroachment, wood logging are quagmire of issues that the tiger heavens face. But the worst is unchecked poaching that continues in one form or other. The impunity with which tigers in Sariska and Panna were poached is astounding. The failure can best be ascribed to: "Nero fiddled while Rome burned".           

Not exactly! But while the tigers were being poached in one of our Nation's best protected wildlife havens the administration was right there from top to bottom. And not a blotch on their deliverance of duty. Until after! After much explanatory response and counter responsive the revelation of ghastly  truth.  I am not here to blame individual lethargy and incompetence. This article lays emphasis on exposing the inability of our system to deal effectively with contingencies that arise from within. Particularly the case of vanishing tigers. This is of utmost urgency. The anomalies in systemic governance pertaining  to wildlife protection should be rectified with electric cadence. 

If a neighboring country elements can effectively fulfill demand for tiger bones by using sources from within India by exploiting the system...How safe we are in all spheres of life?

It all bores down to the fact that machinery responsible to check and discourage poaching in our tiger reserves is ineffective - due to systemic inefficiency or loop holes. There is no intelligence gathering  up to the scale, whatever is there, it has bore no fruits.   

I know that physically guarding such large sensitive territories is not easy..but than is it so immensely difficult that we loose all the tigers in short period. The most important element in preventing poaching is the beat guard and unfortunately he is the weakest element...prone to intimidation and corruption.  Teams  of trained armed guards well versed in matters of conservation and familiar with wildlife are a must. Similarly  professional wildlife manager's trained to the task are a prerequisite. Devoid of political interference the administration should be hell bent upon protecting the area. Discouragement comes from punitive action which so far has been a big farce in and around our tiger reserves.

Of late some steps have been taken or proposed but then how effective they are time will tell. The tiger's plight depends upon implementation of correct policies with a strong will that puts them in force.             

Jhurjura tigress tragic loss

I read in papers and on FaceBook the ghastly incident that occurred in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve few days a go. Following the incident keenly I realized that what is a National tragedy will soon be forgotten. The loss would get mired in administrative unaccountability and legal loop holes which will play their part if some substantiated findings are reached.

Jhurjura tigress is one of the many big cats that have died unnaturally before their prime. This is not only the loss of an endangered species it is indicative of care and regards that we have for other life forms.

What exactly happened?

The facts are yet to come out was it arrogant reckless driving, which I have been experiencing often since number of years?

Was it deliberate murder?

Or accident?

Let us hope that we are soon enlightened of the facts. But what next? Will the incident fall in the same vein as Panna and Sariska and forgotten or setting up of a new order pacify us.? Will few heads rise and see that the incident is not forgotten till suitable corrective action ensues in order to prevent repeat?

This is the best chance to see how we regard our National Pride. This country as whole should react to this incident.

Any way whatever happened could have been prevented. The death is a testimony to the fact that more needs to be done in order to make tourism safer and fruitful in our tiger reserves.

Reckless driving is one issue that needs to be permanently checked. The rush to reach the tiger is what increases speed. There are few parameters that can effectively check speeding vehicles. One good suggestion is to build as many speed breakers as possible. The second is for the staff to check and take necessary action. The latter is what that will be done. Ironically we demand that the staff act as sentinels to check wildlife crimes but here they will be checking us. A waste of crucial man power. 

It is not responsible tourism alone that will work it is responsible tourist that is the order of the day. How we behave as National entity is suggestive of our character and strength.

Indian Wildlife - Dead encounters

As a child I was fascinated with the natural world. The birds and butterflies and some insects,  small  mammals and reptiles were part of our premises. Jackals, civet cats, fox and occasionally a Hyena or Leopard? would leave a tell tale sign in the night. These were my first introduction to nature. The house abounded  in wild trees  - left over remainders of forest that was taken over by early colonizers.

I grew up in natural environment in locality at a distance from Jabalpur in green suburbs. Narmada Road was then sparsely populated with greenery the hall mark and forest patches still intact in the surroundings. Urbanization had not taken place and few houses and couple of villages habituated the area. Jabalpur is situated in Central India or Madhya Pradesh.

My first sight of the Indian tiger was a dead one. It was shot by shikaris from Mumbai whence hunting was open. The license fee was perhaps  not more than hundred rupees for a tiger and less for other unfortunate mammals. The hunting blocks were all around Jabalpur.  The male tiger was shot at Nauradehi Wild Life Preserve in block called Amahpani. It was a piteous site, the animal was skinned right in front of us. Parts of its body including fat were eagerly picked up by locals for supposedly medicinal properties. I do not remember what happened to its claws. 

My first sighting of a leopard was a dead one. The leopard was shot few km away from our house by a local shikari who lived nearby. The Mumbai hunting party then fetched another leopard cub, shot by their Swiss guests on machaan ...mercilessly butchered with random bullet shots all over the body. Another vermin dead....

I once accompanied this hunting party whence we came across a doe at night in Mandla forest division. We were spared from the fright of gunfire and extreme guilt of killing an innocent animal. The shikari accompanying us on jeep was dead asleep, after an orgy of binge drinking and gluttony he was in no position to shoot. This was my first encounter with a spotted deer in the wild. The shikari slept with head leaning on the gun barrel...who cared.     

Then scores of animal arrived, sambar, chital, hare and what not...Mercifully all that organized hunting stopped whence legislation came into the effect.          

The neighborhood teemed with wild animals all around Jabalpur District also in Katni, Mandla and Sihora to name a few. All that is gone, some patches still hold small life and spotted deer which are entirely at mercy of humans. But in spite of the law, many influential people continued to shoot and the numbers began to decrease. Hunting by tribals and local hunters continued unabated as it happens often now. 

Subsequently large tract of forest became devoid of tigers, leopards and Indian wildlife. Jabalpur and its surrounding districts suffered heavy loss of wildlife and forest belts. In small numbers, deer and leopards still survive (perhaps tigers as well) but precariously since hunters still loom large. Most of the deer species have died out here but animals like wild boar still survive. These are the prime targets of illegal hunters and poachers now.

The diminutive beat guard is helpless figure over shadowed by Goonda and Political Raj. He is a witness to poaching and wood logging, the latter on daily basis. Who stops all this frankly.. I do not know...Pardon my ignorance.

Indian wildlife blog

Nauradehi birding & wildlife

Lost tigers of Nauradehi

Sanctuary 

Nauradehi or Noradehi WLS lies in Sagar, Damoh & Narsignhpur Districts in Vindhya Hills with affinity to Narmada Valley dry deciduous forest. The forest are Southern tropical dry deciduous mix type. The approach to the sanctuary is from Jabalpur, Sagar and Damoh in MP. The Jabalpur Sagar Highway goes through the WLS and is a great source of disturbance to wildlife.

Nauradehi was declared a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1977 and encompasses an area of 1187 sq.km. It is among one of the largest sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is home to many mammals that suggests good prey base for the  carnivores. The wolf is the prime predator while few tigers and leopards are living in this WLS. 

Villages - Relocation

None of the villages have been shifted so far but relocation plans are in process. There are some difficulties being faced by the administration one of them is the need of requisite funds from the State Government.   There is an urgent need to shift villages to areas out of the sanctuary but the enormity of the tasks is obvious.  The expanding villages and urbanization of life style has put all our forests under pressure.

Animals - Tigers

Nauradehi and surrounding forests were once high density tiger heavens. One could come across tigers on all approach roads to Sagar, Damoh and Narsinghpur. The forest that constitute Noradehi WLS are the best tiger habitats but the big cat lost ground during the British Raj and the time whence hunting was open in Independent India.

Recently on month of May 2018 a tiger pair has been trans-located from Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Park in Central India. Hopefully tigers will be repopulated in their erstwhile home once again. A sighting of a tigress with cubs took place few years back and much earlier an old tigress was found dead in the park. 

The forest have suffered habitat degradation in the past and most of the trees I could see are young. But great care is being taken to fetch the earlier status. The sanctuary contains excellent niches that support the large mammal base and many crocodiles. No wonder the Cheetah Relocation Project plans to initiate the program here. 

The keystone specie presently is the Indian wolf which on my subsequent visits I could not see but it is frequently seen by many others..  The reserve is home to Chinkara and Black Buck the latter confined to forest area in Damoh district. Nilgais are conspicuous by their relative abundance, spotted deer and sambar deer can be seen occasionally in day time. The sanctuary is home to fresh water crocodiles and smooth otters seen on the banks of the river especially at crocodile point.  Many species of small mammals, reptiles and insect are waiting to be discovered. The sanctuary is home to sloth bear as well.

Birds

I could checklist more than eighty resident species here and am waiting to come across spotted grey creeper. Raptors to appear to be abundant. Nauradehi is one of the few pockets where white backed vulture survives and breeds. King vulture and Egyptian vulture are often seen and the habitat is suggestive of the presence of  long billed vulture as well.  I saw a juvenile at Cheola Lake and an adult in flight.  The region around Cheola Lake is best for wildlife safaris and birding.  The water body is home to interesting wetland birds and one can see  resident whistling teal, little grebe, painted storks, lesser adjutant storks, gray heron and many more.          

Tourism

The WLS has tremendous scope for wildlife watching and birding tours in India. Like all preserves there is a criss cross of  motor able jungle roads in the sanctuary. A guide can be arranged at Mohali forest rest house. It would be advisable to take assistance from the DFO who sits at Sagar.   

Tourism is in the nascent stage and very few tourists visit the sanctuary. But the place has great tourism potential as the eco region and keystone mammalian species seen are much different from Kanha, Bandhavgarh National Park and Pench tiger reserves in MP.

The people behind the management and the local forest staff are committed to conservation. The  conservation measures will increase wildlife in coming years and improve the habitat further. The tigers and leopards will flourish once again.         

For more information on wildlife safaris and birding at Noradehi please contact The Penthouse. Privately owned hotel accommodation The Penthouse in Jabalpur organises package tours for birding and safaris at Noradehi. 

Winters up to March is the best time to be at this WLS in Madhya Pradesh in India. But summertime is good for resident birdas well as wildlife wtaching which gathers around the few water holes with enough supply. Rani Durgavati Wildlife Sanctuary is about fifty km from Noradehi.     

Indian Wildlife - Photos

Male Swamp Deer at Kanha


Hard Ground Barasingha


Bison at Kanha National Park 


Indian Roller


Tiger


Chinkara 

                                                       Sambar

Tiger Walk

That's the way it should be tiger sighting on the first go. We entered Kanha National Park with lot of expectation and were thrilled to see the tiger a short distance from the Kisli Gate. The male tiger was radio collared but my friends where amateur photographers who cared hell. 

It is quite interesting to observe people whence they sight an Indian tiger in the wild especially if they have never seen a tiger in the wild. My friends had seen the tiger but not this way.  The frightened awestruck countenance have much to tell. The myth that tiger is a Xtra Large barbaric beast who kills humans at the first go is washed out in a split second. The tourists, I find develop respect for the tiger and other wild denizens. They come to understand the ethos of nature conservation.

Why conservation? The park visit answers this question. The importance of habitat conservation and preserving the whole ecosystem becomes clear to the uninitiated. Controlled  responsible tourism helps not only by sentiments it creates but thanks to the education it imparts.   

The trained naturalists, park guides and wildlife interpretation centers in the tiger reserves play a crucial role in nature  awareness campaigns.   

The tiger was trekked by tourists on a jeep safari ahead of us by the alarm cries. But it was difficult to locate it. 

"The tiger is moving..."as we followed the alarm cries.

In the heat of the moment I heard frantic cackling of greater racket tail drongos and tree pies. I told the guide that some birds give alarm cries as well ...rather loudly. The tiger was located some distance ahead but were the birds giving the alarm cries? Yes they were!

My spirit was dampened by young naturalists from luxury resorts who were giggling shamefully and openly at me. They found my surmise extremely funny. But I have experienced this often - the bird cries and smart alecs.

Anyway the tiger walked through the grassy meadow and came straight towards the safari jeeps. It was a huge male about five to six years old. It came on the jungle road and began walking on the soft sand partially ignorant of the jeeps which were frantically moving back and forth in order to give way.   

I have often seen that tigers on mate search or territorial marking spree come up to face humans and whatever totally immersed in their activity. This is with tigers less used to humans as well. Perhaps the urgency pushes their guard away. 

After lot of tree clawing and urine sprays it moved down towards the thick canopy and vanished ...much to the relief of tourists with bated breadth.One more tiger was seen at Kanha Tiger Park in Madhya Pradesh. Except some warning grimaces the tiger went about its task! You mind you business I mind mine it seemed to say. But do we???????

The next two days we saw Kanha wildlife albeit not in proper circumstance as a large holiday crowd had turned up. The vehicular movement had pushed the animal life into thick canopy difficult to be seen. We came across lot of signs of tigers but that was all. 

I think number of jeep entries should be regulated further as this would spread tourist visit to days whence very few people visit the park. Well I am not a park manager. 

The hotel in Kanha where we were up for the stay is run by a conservationist. Some of our views meet some do not. Anyway I did not discuss this issue with him. It is fun to be in company of some local naturalists in Kanha National Park and other tiger reserves.

Kanha Tiger Reserve is one of the best managed parks in India. Although there are recurring  doubts about the safety of the tiger in the park...they still survive. One thing that rings in my mind is that around preserves like Kanha and Bandhavgarh and others, the man animal conflict is having a greater toll than I believed earlier.   

Of a thousand tiger dead

Recently I came across a book on shikar tales by an acclaimed hunter of the past? India's past is rich  in natural wealth and hence tigers and wildlife, unfortunately it reeks of awful destruction and plunder that the country went through not only through the barbaric invaders and British Raj? But through our own as well.

The legendary shikari (Not Jim Corbett) narrates his accounts of bravado of shooting tigers in most difficult circumstances and succeeding (Sic!). He describes tiger shoots or hunts as an art without guilt, but  more so with incredible passion...that which belies that this country lives under the shadow of Vedic teachings  that shows utmost respect to nature. His account of tiger shoots is devastating to our generation and unfolds the saga of massive destruction that took place in the past.

The Shikari portrays himself as a legend and unwittingly as an insouciant pig of the British Regalia and the pleasure seeking Maharajahs. Dressed in British code, he narrates accounts of arranging shoots of the innocent animal for the Rulers and the Maharajahs! He narrates with shameless pride the accolades that followed - Brought me fame and fortune(Sic). 

On one hand while half naked fakir (Bapu) and other patriotic elements were fighting for India's freedom this man was totality ignorant of the country's subjugation under a foreign civilization. And so were many insouciant Maharajahs...many of whom hold a place of pride in Independent India. From the accounts...this masterpiece of senseless destruction...it is evident...of the kind of support that the Rulers got from within.  

In order to please the Rulers and satiate the pride of the Maharajahs, thousands of tigers were poached ..ruthlessly...mercilessly...males, females....cubs...females with cubs...pregnant tigresses...     

His account of behavioral characteristic of tigers at best is comical, a man more adapt in the art of setting the machaan and ruthless murder of innocent animal could not be a field biologist...he appears more like a butcher.

What is disheartening of now...from the accounts is the abundance of tigers in all forested regions ...now sadly gone. The animal and other life forms are still reeling under the threat of destruction from more immediate urgency.  Perhaps the coming generation will read this blog entry and decry us for not doing enough to save the tiger, hence nature. They will target at us, same ire that I and many conservationist are doing at the moment.

Whence the Rulers left and Maharajahs lost dominance the Brown Sahibs took over and the rest is history. 

From the above lines it is obvious that I am certainly not targeting any Nationality or ethnicity, my anger is more on historical times that were steeped in ignorance. It is more at why understanding did not prevail in spite of the preachings of Vedas...that our life depends upon existence of nature inviolate.    

No one including the Rulers would have let loose such destruction that prevailed if ignorance was overtaken timely. By the time the urgency dawned upon Jim Corbett and many others it was too late. 

Today the place of shikaris have been taken over by the poachers, not for ignorant pride or insouciance, but for monetary greed. The World watches helplessly as the beginning of the end nears. We miss in all sincerity our late Prime Minister Indraji more so now...the tables would have turned in favor of the beleaguered life forms by now.

Pl.Note*

The Government in India is doing its bit to conserve nature.  There are many individuals and organizations involved actively in conservation of species in India and from other countries but it appears to be a loosing battle. God give them strength!  

Jago re! India Jago re!

Eco Resorts at Kanha

Tiger tourism is one of the main draw of the visitors from foreign countries and the locals. Tiger reserves like Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench in Madhya Pradesh are very popular for tiger safaris. Corbett National Park and Ranthambhore are also very popular for tiger tourism in India. 

In spite of large number of National Parks/Tiger Reserves greater tourism is limited to the above forests. The reason is high density of tigers and hence easy visibility. Though tigers are present in good numbers elsewhere especially in South India the visibility is lacking due to nature of the habitat. Periyar and Wynaad are examples.

To cater to ever increasing numbers of tourists on tiger safaris the accommodation has been steadily increasing. Initially the rest houses belonging to forest and other government departments were the only places one could stay. In recent times the influx of hotels, jungle camps and resorts has been catering to the tourists.

The concept of holiday accommodation in Indian jungle is steadily changing. The tourists prefer fully equipped wildlife resorts for a stay. These resorts are now being built on the principle of sustainable eco friendly tourism. The ambiances though highly modern is built on the exteriors were eco friendly sustainable resources have been used.      

Most of the eco resorts are built using the same technology as the ethnic dwellings of the tribal villages. Kanha Tiger Preserve leads in this aspect. The new concept has been encouraged by responsible eco friendly tourism which is the need of the hour. Even the energy is obtained from solar panels as much as possible. Though for temperature control electricity is a must. But much of the power is generated using solar panels.  

The ethnic construction is environmentally well heeled and cottages and rooms maintain an amiable temperature reducing the need for temperature control. As in ethnic dwellings the walls are used using locally available mud in conjunction with natural materials used by the tribal. The construction is safe, stable and rock solid as has been proved through centuries.    

The appearance of the resorts is that of beautifully sculptured dwellings in harmony with the surroundings. All this, without sacrificing modern comforts and utilities that the guests look for in luxury accommodations. The eco resorts are well equipped with wildlife interpretation center, trained naturalists, and professional managers and wait staff. The resorts offer in house activities relating to eco tourism iike tribal dance and music - this way they provide lively hood to the locals.   

In time to come eco friendly resorts at Kanha will be the preferred accommodation.  The tourists on wildlife safari do not wish for city type hotels anymore in wild habitats. With increasing tourism awareness of our wild heritage is growing among the tourists. They are more and more becoming conscious of responsible tourism practices.

Kanha and other tiger reserves our life sustaining eco systems. The support vast diversity of life forms with which our lives are linked. Conducting proper tourism will help save these vital ecosystems, and sustain lives of the local communities as well. The tribal are the real sentinels who conserve our green belts. 

An awkward kill

The leopard must have been very hungry to go for a kill twice or thrice his o her size. When we reached the spot we could make out that the kill was not severely injured or dead.

The awkward attack suggested of a young leopard male or female. It was difficult to make out from few pug marks that we could trace.The cattle was lying totally floored to the ground with not much loss of blood,  but its vertebral column was damaged. From the charge we could make out the the attacker was not a tiger. 

The attack took place around seven or eight in the evening and the alarm cries brought the owner to the spot. The leopard had remained rooted to the spot where it had made the charge. The cattle had staggered to about fifty yards before it was grounded.  

The alarm cries alerted the owner, and perhaps the leopard hesitated as many a times the owners must have been summoned quickly. The owner and some other people gathered around the cattle and tried to raise  the animal but could not. They than sat around the animal whole night in order to keep the big cat away. 

The kill had been made a few yards from the luxury resort at Kanha National Park in Boda Chappari village. We walked down to the spot at noon. The forest guard had been summoned and he was taking stock of the situation. There were claw marks on the back on both sides and the neck had been gnashed from the top. This had resulted in breakage in the vertebral column.  

The owner of the eco resort an experienced man about forest matters accompanied us to the spot. The cattle bull was undergoing great sufferance but there was hesitation in letting the animal finish and consume it or use some other method for a swift death. Eventually the bull was carried to a spot near to the villagers house for observation and prevention of poisoning of the kill.   

The leopard must have been very hungry and must have been unable to make another kill. It approached the cattle in the night and consumed it. It was later chased away in wee hours of the morning. The dead cattle was than cremated. The leopard  was a female with cubs as we found out later and hence the desperation for food.   

This is a frequent occurrence in the buffer zone of Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh in India. This reflects upon the man animal conflict and challenges the management capability of the department. In spite of good prey base big cats find live stock an easy target as compared to the fleet footed deer. Every year a large number of cattle are killed whence the venture into the forest.

The villagers receive compensation, it would not a big surprise if the cattle owners have made this a opportune business since I am told the proportion of bulls is higher than the cows in the Kanha buffer. This also explains scarcity of fresh milk in the buffer. 

Images from Kanha Tour

These are the images taken by the group (earlier blog) on tiger safari at Kanha Tiger Reserve. The works though amateur portrays Kanha's wilderness in an excellent manner.  

Barking Deer

Bengal tiger
Bison Fawn
Bison female
Male Bison Kanha
Hidden tiger
Indian wild dogs
Dhole at Kanha
Sambar deer female
Gaur female

Tiger at Bison Kill

Bison mating

More images to be blogged soon....

Kanha Picture Gallery 

A trip to remember

It is said that a tiger brings heart and soul together. Sometimes a trip for tiger safari gels simply because  interest matches. Driven by enthusiasm me and my friends from Gujarat drove into Kanha National Park and enjoyed wild safaris like never before.

At Krishna Jungle Resort 

At Bamni Dadar Kanha National Park


It was a fun trip in serious pursuit of tigers, other wildlife and birds. In one way or another it was a learning experience. Safaris are the beginning of the end to convert people into nature conservation. What could be better than a tiger safari in heart of Kanha. We went on night safaris on the Mukki road without breaking the law  and yes no search lights. The uninitiated express wonder and surprise at the work of nature ...and there creeps in an instant urge to save this valuable heritage of ours. 

By no means uninitiated the group has been to many National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries.  It is a deep seated interest that creates awareness and  certainly in time to come some more voices to be raised in favor of our beleaguered wilderness.

We enjoyed a holistic tiger safari at Kanha and left with a stronger bonding for all things bright and beautiful - tigers, leopards, deer, birds, other wild animals and beautiful tress herbs and shrubs.     

Bandavgarh Tiger Safari

Gopal - Bapu

Gopal is a cousin, friend and fellow wild lifer. He is much more - a businessman, nature photographer and birding enthusiast. Since years of our association, he has matured into an interesting person especially when it comes to wildlife and nature.

He relishes good life and leaves no stone unturned whence it comes to enjoying nature. 

Apart from his interest in nature he is an excellent photographer ....amateur if you call him since he is not full time into it. Here are some images he and his friends captured on tiger tour to Bandhavgarh. It was difficult to sort out from the lot since all images carry heart and soul.

The images have been captured by Ila Ben S Dalal (nee Ambani), Shrujal and Gopal Desai.

Patdi Durbar

Apart from interest in tigers, he is knowledgeable about flora, fauna and bird life of the Little Rann of Kutch. He is regular visitor to Patdi Estate near Ahmedabad in Gujarat where they own a beautiful palace as erstwhile rulers of the Desert Kingdom. Patdi Durbar as the family is known are enthusiastic nature lovers and Gopal tops the list.

His experience and adventures of desert life....of things and places, fills one with envy. Besides the luxury tents, camp fire and sumptuous food he has many an experiences and wild tales to narrate. He is  a generous host and can give you the wildest adventure of the Desert Kingdom. True to his Royal Blood, he lives life King Size!  

He is a regular visitor to Kanha Tiger Reserve and Bandhavgarh and other tiger reserves in Madhya  Pradesh and elsewhere where he photographs wildlife. He has been visiting Gir National Park and other sanctuaries in Gujarat often. He has an interesting collection of photographs of wild animals and birds from the tiger reserves and National Parks.

I will blog more images with time to come.....