While Kanha National Park is renowned for its majestic Bengal tigers, the park's biodiversity extends far beyond these iconic big cats. Exploring the lesser-known fauna of Kanha offers a fascinating journey into the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that call this protected area home. Here's a glimpse into some of the lesser-known fauna found in Kanha National Park:

1. Barasingha (Swamp Deer):

   • Kanha is one of the last strongholds of the endangered barasingha, also known as the swamp deer. 
   • These majestic deer are distinguished by their distinctive antlers, which can have up to twelve tines.
   • Kanha's grasslands and marshy meadows provide ideal habitat for the barasingha, making sightings of these graceful creatures a highlight of any visit to the park. 

2. Indian Wild Dog (Dhole):

   • The Indian wild dog, or dhole, is a highly social and elusive predator found in the forests of Kanha.
   • Dholes are skilled hunters known for their cooperative hunting strategies and vocal communication.
   • While sightings of dholes are relatively rare, lucky visitors may catch glimpses of these agile canines as they traverse the park in search of prey. 

3. Sloth Bear:

   • Kanha is home to a healthy population of sloth bears, characterized by their shaggy coats and distinctive white V-shaped markings on their chests.
   • These solitary bears are primarily nocturnal, foraging for termites, ants, and fruits in the park's forests under the cover of darkness.
   • With patience and luck, visitors may encounter sloth bears during early morning or late evening safaris, particularly near water sources or termite mounds. 

4. Indian Gaur (Indian Bison):

   • The Indian gaur, or Indian bison, is the largest bovine species and a formidable herbivore found in Kanha National Park.
   • These massive animals roam the park's grasslands and forests in small herds, grazing on a variety of vegetation.
   • Observing Indian gaurs in their natural habitat offers visitors a glimpse into the untamed wilderness of Kanha and the dynamic interactions between predators and prey. 

5. Indian Pangolin:

   • Kanha is home to the elusive Indian pangolin, a nocturnal mammal with distinctive overlapping scales covering its body.
   • Pangolins are solitary and elusive creatures, primarily feeding on ants and termites using their specialized claws and long, sticky tongues.
   • While sightings of Indian pangolins are rare due to their nocturnal habits and cryptic behavior, the park's diverse habitats provide suitable conditions for these unique animals to thrive.

6. Birdlife:

   • Kanha National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 300 avian species, including resident and migratory birds.
   • From colorful kingfishers and majestic raptors to elusive forest owlets and vibrant minivets, Kanha's diverse birdlife offers endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts. 
   • Exploring the park's varied habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, and mixed deciduous forests, reveals a stunning array of feathered inhabitants, each contributing to the park's ecological richness. 

Exploring the lesser-known fauna of Kanha National Park offers a deeper appreciation for the park's ecological complexity and biodiversity. While the Bengal tiger may reign as the park's undisputed icon, encountering these lesser-known species enriches the visitor experience and underscores the importance of conserving Kanha's natural heritage in its entirety.