Corbett National Park -Grassland
Corbett National Park -Grassland
In Corbett National Park, the grasslands are the first and last places we check. In the morning, we search for Tigers and in the evening, we look for Elephants and enjoy the sunsets. Corbett boasts one of the largest grasslands in India, where you can see Tigers crouching, stalking their prey, and Elephants grazing with their calves.
The above Tiger image captures a crossroads in the grassland where four roads converge. We often wait here, listening for alarm calls and observing any activity. It's a special spot, and getting the right point of view can be challenging, especially with 4 or 5 vehicles lined up behind you, all eager to capture the perfect shot.
Spotted deer often laze around in groups, resting peacefully.
The Ramganga reservoir, rich in fish, attracts Palash eagles, Lessor Fish eagles, Ospreys , and River terns, all fishing in the area.Early mornings are filled with the calls of Black francolins, and sightings of Indian rollers are common.
In India, we have Asiatic elephants that inhabit grasslands, tropical evergreen forests, and semi-evergreen forests. Jim Corbett National Park, Kabini, and Kaziranga are famous for elephants, where you can easily see and photograph them. Next to birds, elephants are my favorite animals to watch and photograph.
This is my favorite photograph of an elephant and its baby, taken while I was crossing the grasslands of Dhikala in Corbett National Park. Elephants rely heavily on touch to communicate, especially with their calves, whom they often push gently, nuzzle, and maintain constant contact with. The mother in this photo was very protective, keeping her small calf close by at all times. It was heartwarming to watch the baby elephants play as they followed their mothers. The way the family protected one another reminded me so much of human beings. It’s truly a treat to watch them play, fight, and bathe together.
We often invoke Lord Ganesha during auspicious occasions, and fittingly, the Elephant is a keystone species in the forest. As ordinary citizens, we can take on the responsibility of being guardians of Elephants . The main threat to Elephant is poaching for their body parts, so we should avoid and discourage the use of products made from elephants. Although Elephants in circuses are now banned, it's important to ensure that no one promotes or conducts shows involving these animals.
Human-animal conflict is another significant threat, particularly for banana plantation and farm owners living near forest boundaries. Instead of using electric fences, they could install solar-powered fencing to protect their crops. If an elephant enters a human habitat, it’s crucial to notify forest officials immediately so they can safely guide the animal back to its natural environment.
When traveling through forest reserves or nearby roads, it’s important to follow speed limits—whether it's 40 km/h or 20 km/h—as posted. If Elephants are crossing the road, patiently wait for them to pass without honking or causing a disturbance. Above all, treat these magnificent creatures with empathy and respect.
Photo credit : Rathika Ramasamy
Thank you for stopping by.
Rathika Ramasamy
Comments
Well put in words ma ❤️