Flora and Fauna of Sikkim

Sikkim is a tiny state amidst the towering Himalayas lying between 27 to 28 degrees North latitude and 88 to 89 degrees East longitude. It is infact the second smallest state in India. Its Geography is dominated by the most majestic mountain chain in the world which includes the Khangchendzonga. The mountainous regions in the north of the state with summits seem to touch the skies. The altitude varies right from sea level to mountain peaks covering a wide spectrum of flora and fauna.

Sikkim's botanical and zoological richness is awe- inspiring, covering more than 4000 species of plants and 30% of all the birds found in the Indian sub-continent. The hillsides and mountain slopes of Sikkim are strewn with bright patches of myriad colors.

Flora:

Luxuriant forests cover 36% of the land. The lowlands in the south between 800 feet to 5000 feet experience a tropical climate. The temperate forest of oak, chestnut, maple, birch, alder, magnolia and silver fir dominates between 5000 ft and 13000 ft. Above 13000ft, is the alpine zone where juniper, cypresses and rhododendrons grow. The perpetual snowline lies at 16000 ft. More than 4000 species of plant have been recorded in Sikkim. Over 600 species of orchids grow in Sikkim, Epiphytal and terrestrial types, in the tropical and temperate zones. 35 species of rhododendrons grow in temperate and alpine regions, their flowering from May to August covering the hillsides in a riot of colors. Sikkim also has large cardamom, orange and tea plantations.

Fauna:

Over 400 varieties of butterflies and moths adorn the forest with color and life. Giant Lammergeier Vultures, Eagles, Whistling Thursh, Minivets, Bulbuls and Pheasants are some from among the 550 species of birds recorded in Sikkim some of which have been declared endangered. Among the more commonly found animals in the alpine zone are yaks. They are domesticated and reared in North Sikkim mainly for their economic productiveness. Yak milk is used to make butter `churpi', the wool comes in handy as raw material for carpets and blankets. The musk deer, found in the upper temperate regions, is today a species in the endangered list. A common denizen of Sikkim is the muntjac, or the Barking Deer. Among the more exotic mammals is the Red Panda which lives mostly on treetops. It is found at altitudes ranging from 6,000 to 12,000 feet. The snow leopard is an almost mythical animal. It has rarely been sighted and to date, only two field zoologists have succeeded in photographing this elusive animal in its habitat which can vary from 5,000 feet to as high as 18,000 feet. Blue sheep, flying squirrels, binturong, tahrs, marmots and musk deer are at home in this cool blanket of green. Fishing is allowed with a permit.

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