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Campbell Bay National Park
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Campbell Bay Overview

Campbell Bay National Park, nestled on Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India, is a pristine and remote wilderness spanning approximately 426 square kilometers (164 square miles). Located in the Bay of Bengal, this national park forms a vital part of the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve and is renowned for its lush tropical forests, striking biodiversity, and captivating natural features.

The park’s landscapes are characterized by dense mangroves, tropical evergreen forests, and pristine coastal areas. Rugged terrain, with rolling hills and occasional small streams, creates a perfect habitat for its diverse wildlife. The park’s coastal regions are adorned with picturesque beaches and coral reefs, while its inland areas feature an array of vegetation, including ferns, orchids, and towering hardwood trees.

The park’s wildlife is as remarkable as its landscapes. Campbell Bay National Park is home to several rare and endemic species of animals and birds. Key mammalian inhabitants include the Nicobar tree shrew, saltwater crocodile, and wild boar. Among its bird species, the Nicobar pigeon, megapodes, and white-bellied sea eagle stand out, captivating bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The park’s location and ecosystem also support marine life, with sea turtles and an array of fish frequenting its waters. Reptiles such as snakes and lizards also thrive in the tropical habitat, adding to the region’s ecological diversity.

A prominent feature of Campbell Bay National Park is its rich coral reefs, teeming with marine life. These reefs, along with the untouched beaches, are among the park’s most popular attractions. The Great Nicobar Island is also known for Mount Thullier, its highest peak, which rises prominently within the park’s landscape. The island’s natural beauty and unspoiled environment draw nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Visitors to Campbell Bay National Park typically engage with the park through guided treks, wildlife safaris, and bird-watching excursions. Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the underwater world of vibrant coral and marine species. Access to the park is limited due to its remote location, which helps preserve its pristine condition but requires special permits for visitors.

Conservation efforts at Campbell Bay National Park face challenges, primarily due to its vulnerability to natural disasters like tsunamis and the isolation of Great Nicobar Island. However, the park’s inclusion in the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve has facilitated its protection and management. The Indian government and various environmental organizations have worked tirelessly to conserve the park’s unique biodiversity. These efforts include habitat restoration, species monitoring, and marine conservation initiatives, which have yielded some success in preserving this ecological treasure.

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Park Map
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Campbell Bay National Park Highlights

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Campbell Bay National Park is a stunning reserve located in the Nicobar Islands, India. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park is home to a variety of unique species that thrive in its dense tropical forests, coastal mangroves, and coral reefs. The ecosystem here supports rare flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region. Below are some of the popular species you can encounter in Campbell Bay National Park:

Saltwater Crocodile
This apex predator is commonly found in the mangrove swamps and coastal areas of the park. Known for its immense size and powerful jaws, the saltwater crocodile plays a vital role in the park’s ecosystem as a keystone species.

Nicobar Tree Shrew
An endemic species, the Nicobar tree shrew is a small, agile mammal that feeds on insects and fruits. It is an important part of the forest ecosystem, helping with seed dispersal and pest control.

Dugong
Often referred to as the “sea cow,” this gentle marine mammal grazes on seagrass in the coastal waters of the park. Dugongs are a vulnerable species, and their presence highlights the ecological importance of Campbell Bay’s marine habitat.

Reticulated Python
One of the longest snake species in the world, the reticulated python is commonly found in the dense forested areas of the park. It preys on small mammals and birds and plays a role in maintaining ecological balance.

Nicobar Long-Tailed Macaque
This primate, endemic to the Nicobar Islands, is known for its intelligence and social behavior. It thrives in the tropical forests, feeding on fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates.

Leatherback Sea Turtle
The world’s largest sea turtle, the leatherback is often seen nesting on the beaches of the park. These turtles are critically endangered and rely on the protected shores of the Nicobar Islands for survival.

Giant Robber Crab
Also called the coconut crab, this unique crustacean is known for its ability to climb trees and crack open coconuts. It plays an important role in the park’s ecosystem by aiding in the decomposition of organic matter.

Monitor Lizard
A large reptile found throughout the park, the monitor lizard is both a scavenger and a predator, feeding on insects, small mammals, and eggs.

Nicobar Wild Boar
This wild pig is an important part of the park’s ecosystem, serving as both a prey species for predators and a seed disperser for plants.

Butterflies
The park is home to a dazzling array of butterfly species, including the Common Mormon and Nicobar Crow, which contribute to pollination and add vibrant colors to the lush environment.

Birds

The birdlife in Campbell Bay National Park is as diverse as its other fauna, with many unique and migratory species finding a haven in the park’s forests and coastal areas. Below are some of the prominent bird species:

Nicobar Pigeon
This striking bird, with its metallic green and bronze plumage, is endemic to the Nicobar Islands. It is often found in forested areas and is crucial for seed dispersal.

Great Nicobar Serpent Eagle
A bird of prey endemic to the region, the serpent eagle is known for its sharp vision and hunting skills, often spotted soaring over the forest canopy.

White-Bellied Sea Eagle
This large raptor is commonly seen near the coastal areas of the park, where it preys on fish and other small animals.

Pacific Reef Heron
A coastal bird, the Pacific reef heron is often found wading along the shores, feeding on small fish and crustaceans.

Edible-Nest Swiftlet
Known for their unique nests used in bird’s nest soup, these swiftlets are small, agile birds often seen darting through the air near caves or cliffs.

Andaman Woodpecker
A striking black woodpecker with a red crest, this bird is a regular inhabitant of the park’s dense forests.

Nicobar Bulbul
Endemic to the Nicobar Islands, this small, colorful bird is known for its melodious calls and is often seen perched in forested areas.

Black-Naped Oriole
With its vibrant yellow body and distinct black nape, this oriole adds a splash of color to the park and feeds on fruits and insects.

Brown Hawk-Owl
A nocturnal bird of prey, the brown hawk-owl is commonly seen roosting in dense foliage during the day and hunting at night.

Eastern Reef Egret
This medium-sized heron is a common sight along the coasts and estuaries, feeding on small fish and invertebrates in the shallow waters.

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