FAUNA IN SIKKIM

The diversity in the plant world is complemented by a similar variety in the animal kingdom. Amongst
the mammals of Sikkim are the rare Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Red panda, Musk Deer, Blue
Sheep, Shapi, Common Langur, Leopard Cat, and the Flying Squirrel.

Shapi

Shapi is a rare animal that inhabits the alpine region. It was discovered only in 1938 by a German doctor
Ernest Schalfer. The Shapi has the size of a mountain goat and has a long white mane. The Shapi is an
endangered animal which is on the verge of becoming extinct.

Red Panda

Among the more exotic mammals is the Red Panda which lives mostly on treetops. It is found at
altitudes ranging from 6,000 to 12,000 feet. It has been declared as the State Animal of Sikkim. It is
about 2 feet in length when full grown and belongs to the racoon family. It feeds mostly on bamboo
leaves.

Himalayan Bear

These are found roaming in the temperate forest of Sikkim. They feed on corn, wild plants, honey and
can sometime grow to enormous sizes.

Snow Leopard

The snow leopard is an almost mythical animal. It has rarely been sighted and to date, only two field
zoologists have succeeded in photographing this elusive animal in its habitat which can vary from 5,000
feet to as high as 18,000 feet.

Yaks

Among the more commonly found animals in the alpine zone are yaks. Yaks belong to the cattle family
and can survive only at altitudes above 10000 feet. They survive on alpine shrubs and can go without
food for days together. Due to the long and thick hair that grows on its flanks, legs and tail and its thick
hide, yaks can comfortably sleep and rest in the snow. Yaks forage on their own and do not require
grooming, stabling and care as required by other domesticated animals. Yaks have been domesticated in
Sikkim and are used as beasts of burden as well as for their meat and milk which though produced in
small quantities is very thick. Yak milk is extensively used for preparing Churpi which is hardened cheese.
The hide and hair is used for making crude canvas, tents, carpets and blankets. Crossbreeds of yaks with
cows are known as Dzo’s and these can survive at lower altitudes and are extensively used as pack
animals for trekking and expedition in both lower and higher altitudes.

BIRDS, BUTTERFLIES AND FISHES IN SIKKIM

Over 400 varieties of butterflies and moths adorn the forest with colour and life. Giant Lammergeier
Vultures, Bearded Vulture, Eagle, Whistling Thursh, Minivet, Bulbul and Pheasant are some from among
the 550 species of birds recorded in Sikkim, some of which have been declared endangered. Some other
coloured birds are the emeral dove, fairy blue bird, kingfisher, ashy woodpecker, sultan tit and the
emerald cuckoo. Many migratory birds like the Ruddy Shelduck also visit Sikkim. There are also a wide
variety of pheasants in various colours. Blood Pheasant is declared as the State Bird of Sikkim. Various
types of fishes are also found in the lakes and rivers of Sikkim. There are 45 species of fish in sikkim
which include the trout, salmon and carp. Fishing is allowed with a permit. There are 40 species of
reptiles which include various types of lizards, snakes, krait and cobra.