FLORA
& FAUNA
Because of the altitude that vary right
from sea level to summits that touch the skies, the
flora and fauna naturally covers a wide spectrum. Nowhere
in the world in such a small area can one find flora
and fauna of all varieties - Tropical to the Alpines.
Sikkim's botanical and zoological richness is awe- inspiring,
boasting of more than 4000 species of plants and 30%
of all the birds found in the Indian sub-continent .
No wonder Sikkim has been a dream of naturalists. Dr.
J. Hooker during the middle of the last century surveyed
in the detail the botanical wealth in Sikkim and his
findings were embodied in the publication 'Himalayan
Journal' that is still considered as an authoritative
document. Dr. Salim Ali
an ornithologist has given a detailed account on birds
in his book 'The birds of Sikkim'. Besides these there
are many books available on the flora & fauna of
sikkim.
PLANTS :
The
lowlands in the south, 800'to 5000', experience a tropical
climate; lush vegetation such as figs, laurel, Sal trees
and bamboos have been cleared in some areas for farming.
The temperate forest of oak, chestnut, maple, birch,
alder, magnolia and silver fir dominates between 5000;
and 13000. Above 13000, is the alpine zone where juniper,
cypresses and rhododendrons grow. The perpetual snowline
lies at 16000'. Luxuriant forests cover 36% of the land,
more than 4000 species of plant have been recorded in
Sikkim. Over 600 species of orchids grow in Sikkim,
Epiphytal and terresterial types, in the tropical and
temperate zones. 35 species of rhododendrons grow in
temperate and alpine regions, their flowering from May
to August colours hillsides.
ANIMALS :
Amongst
the mammals of Sikkim are the rare Snow Leopard, Himalayan
Black Bear, Red panda, Musk Deer and Blue Sheep.
Birding
is abundant with Giant Lammergeier, Vultures, Eagles,
Whistling Thursh, Minivets, Bulbuls and Pheasants among
the 550 species to be seen in Sikkim. |
