Species

TPANGOLIN (Manis Crassicaudata)

This animal having hard scales over its body is of the class Edentata. Indian Pangolin is distributed all over the state. However, because of its nocturnal habits, it is hardly seen. Its entire body is covered with thick hard scales which form its protective shield. Pangolin's chief diet consists of termites and ants. Its 25 cm long tongue with sticky substance helps it take out termites from within the termite mounds. With the help of long claws on its front legs, it is able to dig out burrow very fast where it lives and hides during the daytime.

RATEL OR HONEY BADGER (Mellibora capensis)

Bearing an appearance like sloth bear this animal possesses short body & leg and blunt tail. The upper portion of the body is white coloured giving an appearance of a white blanket thrown over the body whereas the lower parts of the body are black. It is distributed everywhere in Gujarat. However, it is rarely seen because of its nocturnal habits. The weight is around 10-20 kg., the length including tail is 75 cm. and its longevity is around 20 years. Equipped with sharp and long claws, the Ratel is a very efficient burrower. Small animals and birds, insects, honey and fruits constitute its main diet. It is a very bold animal and does not hesitate to charge even the human beings and other larger carnivores also, in self defense. It is mostly seen in a pair. The female gives birth to two cubs in a litter.

THE INDIAN WILD ASS (Equus hemionus khur)

Indian Wild Ass is endemic to India and its population is found in Wild Ass Sanctuary of Little Rann of Kachchh. It is very well adapted to the life of desert where its diet is the vegetation like Sueda. As per the last census, the population of Indian Wild Ass is estimated around 3,863. Its habitat, the Little Rann of Kachchh has been declared as Wild Ass anctuary. The female gives birth to one offspring in a litter.