Panna National Park, located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive array of flora (plant life) and fauna (animal life). The park’s unique landscape, a mix of riverine, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and water bodies, supports a wide variety of species, many of which are rare, endangered, or unique to the region.

Flora (Plant Life) in Panna National Park

The park’s floral diversity is influenced by its geographical location in the Ken River valley and its climate, characterized by dry, hot summers and moderate monsoons. The park’s vegetation mainly consists of dry deciduous forests, grasses, and a variety of plants adapted to the region’s seasonal variations. Below are the key plant species found in Panna National Park:

1. Deciduous Trees:
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is the dominant tree species in Panna National Park. This hardwood tree is highly valued for its durable timber and plays a vital role in the ecosystem by providing shelter and food to various animals.
Saja (Terminalia tomentosa): Another common tree species found in the park, Saja trees are large and provide ample canopy cover, making them important habitats for birds and other wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca indica): Known for its aromatic flowers and fruits, Mahua is an important tree for both wildlife and local communities. The fruit is used in food and medicinal preparations, while the flowers are a key food source for several animal species.
Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus): Bamboo groves are found throughout the park, especially in the lowland areas and along the Ken River. Bamboo provides shelter and food for many animals and plays a role in the park’s biodiversity.
2. Shrubs and Bushes:
Chilgoza Pine (Pinus gerardiana): Found in some higher altitude areas, Chilgoza pine trees are unique to the region and add to the diversity of the forest.
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana): The Ber tree, known for its edible fruit, is common in dry forests. It provides nourishment to various species of birds, monkeys, and herbivores.
Kusum (Schleichera oleosa): Kusum trees are found in the park’s forests and are known for their medicinal properties, as well as their edible fruit.
3. Grasses and Ground Cover:
Cenchrus (Cenchrus ciliaris): Commonly found in the park’s grasslands, this hardy grass species is an important part of the ecosystem, supporting herbivores like deer and antelope.
Lantana (Lantana camara): Although often considered invasive, Lantana grows in several parts of the park and provides cover for smaller mammals and birds.
Indian Grass (Themeda triandra): A common species in dry regions, Indian grass is an important component of the park’s grassland ecosystem, providing grazing material for herbivores.
4. Aquatic and Riparian Vegetation:
Along the Ken River and its tributaries, you will find a range of aquatic plants like water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and floating grasses. These plants not only beautify the riverbanks but also provide habitat for fish and water birds.

Fauna (Animal Life) in Panna National Park

Panna National Park is famous for its rich and diverse wildlife, particularly its population of Bengal tigers, which have been successfully reintroduced to the park after their local extinction. However, the park is home to a wide range of animals, including large predators, herbivores, birds, and reptiles. The park’s varied landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and riverine areas, support a rich animal population. Here’s a detailed look at the key fauna found in Panna National Park:

1. Mammals
Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris): The Bengal tiger is the flagship species of Panna National Park and is a major attraction. After the tigers were wiped out in the park due to poaching in the early 2000s, a successful reintroduction program began in 2009. Today, Panna is one of the most reliable places to spot tigers in the wild. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these majestic cats in their natural habitat.
Leopard (Panthera pardus): Leopards are also a significant predator in the park. They are more elusive than tigers but can often be spotted in the park’s rocky and dense forested areas. Leopards prey on small to medium-sized animals such as deer, monkeys, and wild boar.
Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus): Known for their unusual behavior and shaggy fur, sloth bears are found in the forests of Panna. These nocturnal creatures are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, insects, and honey.
Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes): The Indian wolf, a subspecies of the gray wolf, has a small population in Panna National Park. Wolves are elusive, social animals and can often be heard howling at night.
Wild Dog (Cuon alpinus): Also known as the dhole, the wild dog is another important predator in Panna. Wild dogs hunt in packs, targeting medium-sized herbivores such as chital and sambar.
Chital (Axis axis): Also called spotted deer, chital are one of the most common herbivores in Panna. These elegant animals are found in large herds and are a major food source for predators like tigers and leopards.
Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor): Larger than the chital, sambar deer are another common sight in Panna. They are often found in the park’s dense forests and are also a prey species for tigers.
Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus): Also known as the blue bull, nilgai are one of the largest antelopes in India and are commonly found in Panna. They are often seen grazing in the park’s grasslands.
Indian Bison (Bos gaurus): Known as gaur, these large herbivores are found in the forested areas of the park. Gaur are powerful animals and are often seen in herds near water sources.
Wild Boar (Sus scrofa): Wild boars are common in the park, particularly in the grasslands and forest edges. They are omnivores and play an important role in the ecosystem.
2. Birds
Panna National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded. The park’s diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies, attract a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.

Indian Vulture (Gyps indicus): Panna is home to a number of vulture species, including the critically endangered Indian vulture. The park’s cliffs and trees provide ideal nesting grounds for these scavengers.
Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris): Known for their distinctive large bills, pied hornbills are often seen in the forest canopy, feeding on fruits, nuts, and insects.
Eagle Species: Panna is home to several species of eagles, including Indian spotted eagle and steppe eagle, which are often seen hunting in open areas and around water bodies.
Kingfishers: The park’s rivers and lakes are home to several species of kingfishers, including the common kingfisher and the white-throated kingfisher. These colorful birds are often spotted near water.
Peafowl (Indian Peafowl): The peacock, India’s national bird, is common in Panna National Park. Their elaborate displays, particularly during the monsoon season, are a highlight for visitors.
Migratory Birds: In winter, the park becomes home to numerous migratory birds, including species of ducks, waders, and raptors, which arrive from northern India and Central Asia.
3. Reptiles
Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris): The mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile, is found in the Ken River. They are often seen basking in the sun along the riverbanks.
Indian Python (Python molurus): The Indian python is a non-venomous snake found in the park’s forests and grasslands. It preys on small mammals and birds.
Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii): A venomous snake, Russell’s viper is found in the park, particularly in forested and grassland areas.
Monitor Lizards: Several species of monitor lizards, including the Indian monitor, are found in the park. They are often seen basking in the sun on tree branches or rocks.
4. Insects and Other Small Creatures
Butterflies: The park is home to a variety of butterflies, including species like the Common Mormon, Indian Swallowtail, and Blue Tiger, which are seen fluttering through the park’s diverse habitats.
Scorpions and Spiders: Several species of scorpions and spiders are found in Panna, contributing to the park’s rich ecosystem.
Flora and Fauna in Panna National Park
Panna National Park, located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive array of flora (plant life) and fauna (animal life). The park’s unique landscape, a mix of riverine, dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and water bodies, supports a wide variety of species, many of which are rare, endangered, or unique to the region.

Flora (Plant Life) in Panna National Park
The park’s floral diversity is influenced by its geographical location in the Ken River valley and its climate, characterized by dry, hot summers and moderate monsoons. The park’s vegetation mainly consists of dry deciduous forests, grasses, and a variety of plants adapted to the region’s seasonal variations. Below are the key plant species found in Panna National Park:

1. Deciduous Trees:
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is the dominant tree species in Panna National Park. This hardwood tree is highly valued for its durable timber and plays a vital role in the ecosystem by providing shelter and food to various animals.
Saja (Terminalia tomentosa): Another common tree species found in the park, Saja trees are large and provide ample canopy cover, making them important habitats for birds and other wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca indica): Known for its aromatic flowers and fruits, Mahua is an important tree for both wildlife and local communities. The fruit is used in food and medicinal preparations, while the flowers are a key food source for several animal species.
Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus): Bamboo groves are found throughout the park, especially in the lowland areas and along the Ken River. Bamboo provides shelter and food for many animals and plays a role in the park’s biodiversity.
2. Shrubs and Bushes:
Chilgoza Pine (Pinus gerardiana): Found in some higher altitude areas, Chilgoza pine trees are unique to the region and add to the diversity of the forest.
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana): The Ber tree, known for its edible fruit, is common in dry forests. It provides nourishment to various species of birds, monkeys, and herbivores.
Kusum (Schleichera oleosa): Kusum trees are found in the park’s forests and are known for their medicinal properties, as well as their edible fruit.
3. Grasses and Ground Cover:
Cenchrus (Cenchrus ciliaris): Commonly found in the park’s grasslands, this hardy grass species is an important part of the ecosystem, supporting herbivores like deer and antelope.
Lantana (Lantana camara): Although often considered invasive, Lantana grows in several parts of the park and provides cover for smaller mammals and birds.
Indian Grass (Themeda triandra): A common species in dry regions, Indian grass is an important component of the park’s grassland ecosystem, providing grazing material for herbivores.
4. Aquatic and Riparian Vegetation:
Along the Ken River and its tributaries, you will find a range of aquatic plants like water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and floating grasses. These plants not only beautify the riverbanks but also provide habitat for fish and water birds.
Fauna (Animal Life) in Panna National Park
Panna National Park is famous for its rich and diverse wildlife, particularly its population of Bengal tigers, which have been successfully reintroduced to the park after their local extinction. However, the park is home to a wide range of animals, including large predators, herbivores, birds, and reptiles. The park’s varied landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and riverine areas, support a rich animal population. Here’s a detailed look at the key fauna found in Panna National Park:

1. Mammals
Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris): The Bengal tiger is the flagship species of Panna National Park and is a major attraction. After the tigers were wiped out in the park due to poaching in the early 2000s, a successful reintroduction program began in 2009. Today, Panna is one of the most reliable places to spot tigers in the wild. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these majestic cats in their natural habitat.
Leopard (Panthera pardus): Leopards are also a significant predator in the park. They are more elusive than tigers but can often be spotted in the park’s rocky and dense forested areas. Leopards prey on small to medium-sized animals such as deer, monkeys, and wild boar.
Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus): Known for their unusual behavior and shaggy fur, sloth bears are found in the forests of Panna. These nocturnal creatures are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, insects, and honey.
Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes): The Indian wolf, a subspecies of the gray wolf, has a small population in Panna National Park. Wolves are elusive, social animals and can often be heard howling at night.
Wild Dog (Cuon alpinus): Also known as the dhole, the wild dog is another important predator in Panna. Wild dogs hunt in packs, targeting medium-sized herbivores such as chital and sambar.
Chital (Axis axis): Also called spotted deer, chital are one of the most common herbivores in Panna. These elegant animals are found in large herds and are a major food source for predators like tigers and leopards.
Sambar Deer (Rusa unicolor): Larger than the chital, sambar deer are another common sight in Panna. They are often found in the park’s dense forests and are also a prey species for tigers.
Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus): Also known as the blue bull, nilgai are one of the largest antelopes in India and are commonly found in Panna. They are often seen grazing in the park’s grasslands.
Indian Bison (Bos gaurus): Known as gaur, these large herbivores are found in the forested areas of the park. Gaur are powerful animals and are often seen in herds near water sources.
Wild Boar (Sus scrofa): Wild boars are common in the park, particularly in the grasslands and forest edges. They are omnivores and play an important role in the ecosystem.
2. Birds
Panna National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded. The park’s diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies, attract a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.

Indian Vulture (Gyps indicus): Panna is home to a number of vulture species, including the critically endangered Indian vulture. The park’s cliffs and trees provide ideal nesting grounds for these scavengers.
Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris): Known for their distinctive large bills, pied hornbills are often seen in the forest canopy, feeding on fruits, nuts, and insects.
Eagle Species: Panna is home to several species of eagles, including Indian spotted eagle and steppe eagle, which are often seen hunting in open areas and around water bodies.
Kingfishers: The park’s rivers and lakes are home to several species of kingfishers, including the common kingfisher and the white-throated kingfisher. These colorful birds are often spotted near water.
Peafowl (Indian Peafowl): The peacock, India’s national bird, is common in Panna National Park. Their elaborate displays, particularly during the monsoon season, are a highlight for visitors.
Migratory Birds: In winter, the park becomes home to numerous migratory birds, including species of ducks, waders, and raptors, which arrive from northern India and Central Asia.
3. Reptiles
Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris): The mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile, is found in the Ken River. They are often seen basking in the sun along the riverbanks.
Indian Python (Python molurus): The Indian python is a non-venomous snake found in the park’s forests and grasslands. It preys on small mammals and birds.
Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii): A venomous snake, Russell’s viper is found in the park, particularly in forested and grassland areas.
Monitor Lizards: Several species of monitor lizards, including the Indian monitor, are found in the park. They are often seen basking in the sun on tree branches or rocks.
4. Insects and Other Small Creatures
Butterflies: The park is home to a variety of butterflies, including species like the Common Mormon, Indian Swallowtail, and Blue Tiger, which are seen fluttering through the park’s diverse habitats.
Scorpions and Spiders: Several species of scorpions and spiders are found in Panna, contributing to the park’s rich ecosystem.