The ecology of a place and its biodiversity make it unique and special. For Hmachal Pradesh, the variety in flora and fauna is spectacular. Located in the Himalayas, this state is one of the richest among all biological reserves. 68% of the land is Himachal Pradesh is forested. Hence, it is only natural that flora and fauna is abundant here.
Flora of Himachal Pradesh
Almost the entire state is densely vegetated. Apart from the high altitude areas which are snow-laden year round, forests are abundant here. The southern parts of the state mostly house trees like Sal, Chir pine and Shisham. These are mostly moist broad-leaf vegetation and dry deciduous forests. In the Mid-hill regions the forests consist of oak, blue pine, fir, deodar and spruce. The trees in the high altitude areas are those with roots penetrating deep into the ground. Since these areas are covered in snow for a large part of the year, the roots keep them hydrated and alive. These trees are usually moist alpine scrubs, rhodedendrons, alders and birches.
Many parts of the valleys in Himachal are homes to orchards of numerous fruits. These orchards nurtures apples, cherries, strawberries, oranges and many more. Once the snow melts away and the ground unthaws in the summer, flowers come alive all along the valleys. The land gets covered in all shades of the rainbow with flowers like gladiolas, marigolds, chrysanthemums, lilies, tulips, roses, carnations, etc.
Fauna of Himachal Pradesh
With land and vegetation so diverse in the region, even the fauna, or the wildlife, is plentiful in variety. One of the most prominent revered species here is the snow-leopard that preys on the abundantly present ibex and blue sheep. The Himalayan Yak, is also a frequent in the forests of Himachal Pradesh, standing at 6 feet tall. A sub-species of the Asiatic black bear, the Himalayan Black bear from Himachal Pradesh is distinct for white fur along its neck that looks like a necklace. This species, however, tend to be aggressive, so it is best to just see them from afar.
Other popular animals here are the Western Tragopan, Ghoral and Musk Deer. The Monal is the State Bird of Himachal Pradesh. In the aquatic life, popular species are the Golden Mahseer andTrout.
Himachal Pradesh is a heaven on earth. With 32 sanctuaries, 3 Game Reserves and 2 National Parks this states makes for the perfect destination for all nature lovers.
