Species

COMMON DOLPHIN (Delphinus delphis)

Dolphin is one of the most important marine mammals found in Gulf of Kutch. The dolphins are 2 to 3 meters long, with an average lifespan of 50 years. It weighs upto 85 to 100 kg at times. It can be easily distinguished from large fishes by its horizontal caudal fin. Total 32 species of Dolphins belonging to 32 genera are found in the world. The dolphins are considered to be the second most intelligent mammals after man. The dolphins communicate with each other in water through ultrasonic sound waves. Along the Gujarat Coast the dolphins are found in Gulf of Kachchh, some parts of Gulf of Khambhat and some area of Saurashtra coastline. It feeds mainly on squids and small fish.

INDIAN GIANT SQUIRREL (Ratufa indica)

Total 4 species of squirrels are found in Gujarat viz. 3 striped squirrel, 5 striped squirrel, Flying Squirrel and Giant Squirrel. Of these species of squirrel, this species is probably extinct from Gujarat, though it was recorded till recent past. This squirrel has chocolate brown upper parts and lighter under parts with a long and fluffy tail. Rarely seen on land this squirrel nests on the branches of the trees. They are very active during mornings and late evenings and rest during afternoons. They usually rest on branches of trees with their tails hanging down.

SMOOTH INDIAN OTTER (Lutra perspicillata)

The Smooth Indian Otter is an aquatic mammal inhabiting freshwater wetland. It is 25 to 29 inches long and weighing about 7 to 11 kg. It has smooth sleek coat by which it is distinguished from the Common Otter Lutra lutra. The Smooth Indian Otter is blackish to rufous brown in colour. It's average life span is 20 years. It is usually seen in groups of 10-15 animals. It breeds during October to November. It makes burrows near ravines in the riverine areas. In Gujarat it is found in only Narmada river.

JUNGLE CAT (Felis chaus)

Jungle Cat is larger than the domestic cat, is about 2 ft tall and weighs about 5-6 kg. Legs are long and tail is short which gives a distinct appearance to the animal. The colour varies from sandy grey to yellowish grey. The tail is ringed with black towards the end and has a black tip. Average lifespan of this cat is 10-15 years. It is highly adaptive and can be found near the human settlement also. It makes burrows in ravines.