Acknowledgement

I want to express my deep appreciation to Koshi Saint James Residential Secondary School for
arranging the educational excursion to Koshi Tappu. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our
principal, Mr. Annant Kumar Subedi, CEO Mr. Sashi Shrestha, and coordinator Mr. Padam
Gautam for their exceptional dedication in organizing this enriching experience. I am also
profoundly grateful to Mr. Asim Lama and Mr. Yadvendra Shah for their remarkable efforts,
guidance, and continuous supervision, ensuring our safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Furthermore, I would like to extend my gratitude to our subject teacher, Mr. Dinesh Basnet, for
her invaluable support and insightful contributions that aided me in completing this project.
ii.

Table of content

Cover page......................................................i
Acknowledgement...........................................ii

Table of Contents..............................................iii

Background of study.......................................iv

Objective.........................................................v

Methodology...................................................vi

Findings........................................................1-3

Asian elephant

Spotted deer

Hog deer

Wild boar

Wild buffalo

Blue bull

Gharial crocodile
Gangetic dolphin

Conclusion......................................................4
References......................................................5
iii.
 Background of study

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, located in the eastern Terai region of Nepal, spans 175 square
kilometers across Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur Districts. Established in 1976 and designated
as a Ramsar Site in December 1987, it serves as a sanctuary for various species, including
Nepal’s remaining herd of the Wild Water Buffalo (Bubalus arnee).

The reserve boasts diverse vegetation, including submerged aquatic plants, tall reed stands,
flooded grasslands, and complex forest communities. Common plant species include kapok,
sugarcane, reed, cattail, eel grass, hydrilla, lotus, and azolla. Notably, six plant species found
here, namely Rauwolfia serpentina, Alstonia scholaris, Oroxylum indicum, Acacia catechu,
Butea monosperma, and Dalbergia latifolia, are listed in threatened categories by the IUCN and
CITES.

Aside from the Wild Water Buffalo, other protected species in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
include the Wild Elephant (Elephas maximus) and Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). The
Wild Water Buffalo population has grown significantly, from 63 in 1976 to 441 in 2018.
Common mammal species found here include the Wild Boar (Sus scrofa), Hog Deer (Axis
porcinus), Spotted Deer (Axis axis), Fishing Cat (Felis viverrina), Jungle Cat (F. Chaus), Indian
Fox (Vulpes bengalensis), and Jackal (Canis aureus).

Among the 527 bird species recorded, notable ones include the White-breasted Waterhen, Indian
Nightjar, Brown Fish Owl, Slaty-headed Parakeet, Pied Bush Chat, and Striated Grassbird. The
Rufous-vented Prinia (Prinia burnesii nepalensis) is exclusive to the reserve. Additionally, the
Water Cock (Gallicrex cinerea) and Abbott’s Babbler are also found here. Out of these bird
species, 12 are globally threatened, and 101 are nationally threatened.
iv.
Objectives

a)To study methods for safeguarding and restoring the unique wildlife species and their habitats
within the reserve.

b)To study strategies for conserving the diverse range of wildlife species, including those that are
rare, endangered, endemic, and common, found in the reserve.

c)To study the conservation efforts aimed at preserving wetlands to improve the livelihoods of
local communities and foster their sense of ownership over the reserve and its buffer zone.

d)To study the area’s resilience to climate change, with a specific focus on understanding its
impact on local communities and significant species.

e)To study the development of biological corridors to facilitate the movement of wildlife within
the reserve.
v.
Methodology

The purpose of the trip was to understand the significance of endangered animals, flora, and
fauna and ways to protect them. The field visit to KTWR involved three phases: preparation,
activities, and follow-up.

During the preparation phase, teachers familiarized themselves with the destination and provided
us with essential information. We were tasked with researching the flora and fauna of the reserve.

In the activities phase, students gathered information about the reserve, its forests, and
biodiversity. Each student observed museum specimens and took photographs using their
phones.

In the follow-up activities, students and teachers gathered in a field to learn more from locals.
Students engaged teachers in discussions about endangered animals, plant species, and the Koshi
Tappu Wildlife Reserve itself.
vi.
Finding

Asian elephant

Fig :- Asian elephant

Asian Elephant, also known as the Asiatic elephant, is the largest mammal in Asia and the only
living species in the Elephas genus. They range across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast
Asia, from India to Borneo. Living in groups led by the oldest female, known as the matriarch,
they prefer habitats ranging from dry forests to wet grasslands. Despite having preferred plants to
eat, Asian elephants adapt to different resources available in their diverse habitats.

Spotted beer
Fig:- spotted deer

Spotted Deer, also called chital or axis deer, is native to the Indian subcontinent. These deer are
sexually dimorphic, with males being larger and sporting antlers. Their golden-brown bodies are
adorned with white spots from legs to neck, with both males and females having these spots.
Found in countries like India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, chital thrive in areas
between 8 and 30 degrees north latitude.
1.
Hog deer

Fig :-Hog deer

Hog Deer, characterized by their small size, have fur ranging from dark brown to yellow-brown,
with white-tipped tails. They prefer riverine flooded grasslands, particularly areas with tall grass
where they can find fresh shoots and plants to munch on. The Indian hog deer is native to the
Indo-Gangetic Plain, spanning regions from Pakistan and northern India to Nepal and
Bangladesh, and extending into Southeast Asia.

Wild boar
Fig :-wild boar

Wild Boar, also called wild pig, roams the dense jungles of Nepal. This species, belonging to the
Sus genus, includes various subspecies and is the wild ancestor of domestic pigs. Found in
forests across Europe, northwest Africa, and Asia, wild boars have a broad distribution and adapt
to various habitats.

Wild buffalo

Fig:- wild buffalo

Wild Buffalo, known as Arna in Nepal, belongs to the Bovidae family within the Artiodactyls
order. In Nepal, they inhabit a single, isolated location in the southeast lowlands within the Koshi
Tappu Wildlife Reserve. The global population of wild buffalo is dwindling, estimated to be less
than 400 individuals.
2.
Blue Bull
Fig :-blue bull
Blue Bull, also called Nilgai, is the largest antelope in Nepal. The adult males sport a dark grey-
blue coat, while females and calves are sandy brown. Both males and females have white patches
on their necks and grow small dark-colored horns. As herbivores, Blue Bulls munch on grass,
leaves, buds, seeds, fruits, stems, flowers, and more.

Gharial crocodile

Fig:- Gharial crocodile

Gharial Crocodile, native to Nepal, India, and neighboring countries, belongs to the Crocodylia
Order. These reptiles can be found in rivers like those in Chitwan and Barda districts in Nepal
and the Koshi River. With only a few hundred left in Nepal and India combined, they are
critically endangered. Gharials have long, thin snouts and primarily feed on fish.

Gangetic Dolphin
Fig:- Gangetic Dolphin

Gangetic Dolphin, also known as the Ganges River Dolphin, inhabits freshwater habitats. These
dolphins rely on echolocation, emitting ultrasonic sounds to navigate and find prey. They
typically travel alone or in small groups, with mothers often accompanied by their calves. Due to
their blindness and dependence on freshwater, they are highly specialized creatures.

3.
Conclusion

The purpose of our excursion to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve was to learn about the
significance of plants and animals. We discovered why it’s crucial to safeguard endangered
species and how they contribute to the natural balance. Wildlife conservation is vital for
maintaining ecosystems and ensuring the food chain remains intact. By effectively implementing
conservation programs, we can rejuvenate the flora and fauna in the coming years.

Our visit to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for
every student. The tranquil surroundings provided a refreshing break from our routine. Although
we didn’t spot any elephants, we were lucky to observe two wild buffaloes across the river. The
local residents were hospitable and shared valuable insights about the wildlife. We also had the
opportunity to examine preserved carcasses of various mammals, reptiles, and birds displayed
carefully in glass cases.

This trip emphasized that protecting wildlife reserves requires more than just government
regulations. It’s essential for us to realize the urgency of the situation and take proactive steps to
conserve our natural heritage. By raising awareness and advocating for stricter laws, we can
prevent the loss of our national treasures amidst rapid urbanization and modernization.
4.
REFERENCES

1. https://www.fauna-flora.org/species/asian-elephant.com

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.com

5.