Gujarat
boasts of a rich flora and fauna. It has varied landforms, ranging from
dry deciduous forests to majestic grasslands, wetlands, marine
ecosystems and rich moist deciduous forests. This has made the state
suitable as the habitat of rare wildlife species. Asiatic Lion, Wild
Ass, Black Buck, Four-horned Antelope and Great Indian Bustard are some
of the rare species preserved by the various wildlife sanctuaries in
Gujarat. These rare animals constitute the wildlife heritage of India.
Therefore, the national parks in Gujarat are trying their best to save
these creatures from the threat of extinction.Black Buck National Park
Black Buck National Park is situated at Velavadar, at a distance of 72 km from Bhavnagar airport of Gujarat. It was established in the year 1976 in the Bhal region of Saurashtra and spreads over an area of 34.08 sq. km and has appropriate grasslands ecosystem.
Gir National Park
Gir National Park has a sprawling area of 1412 sq. km. It was established in the year 1965 and is located about 65 km to the south-east of the Junagadh city of Gujarat. The forest area of Gir was initially protected by the Nawab of the princely state of Junagadh.
Marine National Park
Marine National Park is the first marine park of India. It is situated in the Gulf of Kutch, which falls under the Junagadh District of Gujarat. It was established in the year 1982 and covers an area of 162.89 sq. km. There is an archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Kutch which comes under the protected area.
Wild Ass Sanctuary
Wild Ass Sanctuary is situated in the Rann of Kutch area of Gujarat. It was established in the year 1972 and falls under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1973. The sanctuary is also known as the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary and covers an area of 4953 sq. km.
