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About Wild Ass Wildlife
Sanctuary
The
entire Little Rann of Kutch known as the "Indian Wild Ass
Sanctuary" is a featureless expanse of flat land - the sea
bed - dotted with islands known as "Baits" which form the core for the
flora and fauna. This is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India.
In India the Indian wild ass represents the horse
tribe. In the Little Rann of Kutch, the asses are attracted by the
flat grass covered expanses known as bets or islands where coarse
grasses spring up In monsoon. With the advent of summer, the asses
move to oilier bets in which there is perennial supply of water and
grass.
As for speed and stamina, there is no one in the animal kingdom to
match the wild ass as they are capable of marathon runs at a pace of
about 24 km/h for as long as two hours, reaching a top speed of 70
km/h over short distances. The wild ass is a strong
animal and a stallion will fight viciously for the possession of the
mare in the mating season. The combatants rear up on their hindlegs,
and kick and bite viciously. After mating one fowl is born between
July and September.
Besides the wild ass, the wildlife consists of rare
and endangered Ghudkhur (Equs hemionus khur) not found anywhere else
in the world. Others, such as the Blue-Bull, Chinkara, Hedgehog and
carnivores such as the Wolf, Jackal, Fox, Jungle and Desert Cats can
also be found here in large numbers. A variety of birds - almost three
hundred species, can be seen in and around the Rann during winter.
Cranes and Flamingos can be seen in thousands. Rare birds such as the
Houbara Bustard, Falcons, a large number and species of larks and
other arid region birds can be seen. Reptiles such as snakes,
tortoises, lizards, are also found. Watch towers, a tourist complex
and other tourist related facilities ar e
in place to enhance wildlife viewing in this unique habitat.
The Safari
Travelling on the vast Rann in an open jeep is a refreshing and
exciting experience. The sunrise and sunset are breathtaking,
displaying exotic hues. Viewing wildlife is an exciting and thrilling
adventure. It is more satisfying to observe animal behaviour than mere
sighting. A minimum of three/four day's stay is recommended. There are
morning and evening excursions in Jeeps/Mini coaches that seat a
comfortable number of persons and are conducted at a leisurely pace.
The safaris, besides wildlife also include visits to ancient monuments
and inland salt works and other places of interest. Explanations and
anecdotes, during the whole safari will keep one, enthralled.
Excursions and other activities
Excursions for viewing a typical Saurashtra village, handloom weaving
and dyeing units and the village potter are available.
For people interested in birds and photography; special rides and
camouflaged boats can be provided.
Trekking and living with seasonally migrating Rabari and Bharwad
tribes. Camps on the edge of the Rann are operated between July and
September each year.
Camel and Jeep safaris in and across the Rann with tented camps on the
Baits, lasting three to seven days can be arranged |
