10 Rare And Exotic Animals Native To India

OT Staff

Malabar Giant Squirrel

Also known as Shekru, this vibrant rodent species is native to India and comes in colours like black, cream, and purple. They are commonly found in the Western Ghats and are known for their impressive size, measuring up to 3 feet in length.

A portrait of a Malabar Giant Squirrel | Shutterstock

Gee’s Golden Langur

This highly endangered primate is found along the Indo-Bhutan border, particularly in western Assam. Their fur changes colour with the seasons, ranging from dark golden chestnut in winter to cream in summer.

Portrait of a Gee’s Golden Langur | Shutterstock

Dugong

Often referred to as sea cows, these large marine mammals are found in the warm coastal waters of the Indian Ocean. They are herbivorous and play a crucial role in maintaining the health of seagrass ecosystems.

An underwater shot of a Dugong | Shutterstock

Kashmir Stag (Hangul)

This critically endangered deer species is found in the dense forests of Jammu and Kashmir. Known for its magnificent antlers, the Hangul is a symbol of the region’s rich biodiversity.

A look at the elegant Kashmir Stag (Hangul) | Shutterstock

Lion-tailed Macaque

Native to the Western Ghats, this primate is distinguished by its silver-white mane and tufted tail. They are arboreal and spend most of their time in the upper canopy of tropical rainforests.

The elusive Lion-tailed Macaque sits in its habitat | Shutterstock

Nilgiri Tahr

This mountain goat is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and the southern portion of the Western Ghats. They are known for their curved horns and are often seen grazing on steep cliffs.

A Nilgiri Tahr stands at the edge of a mountain, Valparai, India | Shutterstock

Pygmy Hog

The smallest and rarest wild pig species, the Pygmy Hog is found in the grasslands of Assam. Conservation efforts have been crucial in preventing their extinction.

A Pygmy Hog in Assam | Shutterstock

Indian Pangolin

This nocturnal mammal is covered in protective keratin scales and is found in various parts of India. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants and termites.

A look at the endangered Indian Pangolin | Shutterstock

Hoolock Gibbon

The only ape species found in India, Hoolock Gibbons are native to the northeastern states. They are known for their loud calls and brachiation (swinging from tree to tree).

A Hoolock Gibbon hangs from a tree at Namdapha Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh | Shutterstock

Red Panda

Found in the temperate forests of the Himalayas, the Red Panda is known for its reddish-brown fur and bushy tail. They are arboreal and primarily feed on bamboo.

A red panda plays in its habitat | Shutterstock

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