The Royal Bengal Tiger
Bandavghar and Kahna, India.
When most people think of Indian animals, the Royal Bengal Tiger is usually the first species that springs to mind. And with good reason:
The subcontinent is home to more than half of the world’s wild tigers, with a thriving population in nearly 50 tiger reserves.
But the country’s national animal is hardly the only endemic species of Indian wildlife. In fact, India is home to approximately 7.6% of the world’s species of mammals, 12.6% of its bird species, and 6.2% of its reptiles.
Protected by more than 120 national parks, 18 biospheres reserves, and 500+ wildlife sanctuaries, the animals of India are vast and varied.
It’s the only country in the world where you have a relatively good chance of seeing (Asiatic) Lions, (Bengal and Indochinese) Tigers, and (Sloth) Bears.
Other iconic species of animals in India include Asian Elephants, Snow Leopards, Clouded Leopards, the Great Indian Rhinoceros, Deer (including Barasingha, Chital, and Hangul), the Dhole (a.k.a. Indian Wild Dog), and endemics such as the Nigiri Leaf Monkey.