Deva Vatala National Park

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The Deva Vatala National Park, located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, is a unique protected area known for its rich biodiversity, wetlands, and semi-arid forests. The park is particularly significant for its role in conserving migratory birds and supporting a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit Deva Vatala National Park.

Indian Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca)
A secretive and powerful predator, the Indian leopard roams the park’s dense forests and rocky outcrops, hunting deer, wild boar, and small mammals.

Bengal Fox (Vulpes bengalensis)
A small and agile carnivore, the Bengal fox thrives in the park’s dry woodlands and open grasslands, feeding on rodents, insects, and fruits.

Golden Jackal (Canis aureus)
An opportunistic hunter and scavenger, the golden jackal is commonly found in the park, preying on small mammals and birds.

Rhesus Macaque (Macaca mulatta)
A social and intelligent primate, the rhesus macaque is frequently seen foraging in the park’s forests, feeding on fruits, seeds, and insects.

Indian Crested Porcupine (Hystrix indica)
A nocturnal rodent covered in long, sharp quills, the Indian crested porcupine inhabits the park’s dry forests and scrublands, feeding on roots, fruits, and vegetation.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa cristatus)
A resilient and highly adaptable species, the wild boar forages in the park’s forests and grasslands, searching for roots, nuts, berries, and small invertebrates.

Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata)
A highly endangered species, the Indian pangolin is rarely seen in the park, emerging at night to use its strong claws to dig for ants and termites.

Indian Monitor Lizard (Varanus bengalensis)
A large and powerful reptile, the Indian monitor lizard thrives in the park’s semi-arid landscapes, preying on rodents, birds, and eggs.

Indian Cobra (Naja naja)
A venomous snake found in the park’s forests and grasslands, the Indian cobra preys on rodents and amphibians while playing a crucial role in controlling pest populations.

Saw-scaled Viper (Echis carinatus)
One of the most venomous snakes in the region, the saw-scaled viper is well-camouflaged in the park’s dry, rocky terrain and preys on small reptiles and rodents.

Birds

The Deva Vatala National Park is a vital habitat for many bird species, including migratory birds that visit the park’s wetlands and forests. The diverse ecosystem provides excellent nesting and feeding grounds. Here are some of the most iconic bird species found in the park.

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)
A striking and colorful bird, the Indian peafowl is commonly found in the park’s forests, where it feeds on seeds, fruits, and insects.

Pallas’s Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus)
A large and powerful raptor, the Pallas’s fish eagle is often seen soaring over the park’s wetlands, hunting fish and waterfowl.

Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)
A distinctive ground-nesting bird, the red-wattled lapwing is known for its loud calls and is often found near lakes and marshes.

White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)
A brilliantly colored kingfisher, the white-throated kingfisher is commonly spotted near the park’s water bodies, hunting fish, amphibians, and insects.

Black Kite (Milvus migrans)
A common bird of prey, the black kite is often seen soaring over the park, scavenging for food and hunting small mammals and birds.

Grey Francolin (Ortygornis pondicerianus)
A ground-dwelling bird, the grey francolin forages in the park’s grasslands, feeding on seeds, insects, and small reptiles.

Eurasian Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
A striking bird with a unique crown of feathers, the Eurasian hoopoe is frequently seen in the park, foraging for insects in grassy areas.

Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)
A vibrant and acrobatic bird, the Indian roller is frequently seen in the park’s open areas, catching insects in mid-air.

Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)
An adaptable and social bird, the common myna thrives in the park’s forests and grasslands, feeding on insects, fruits, and seeds.

Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)
A fearless and agile bird, the black drongo is known for its aerial acrobatics and ability to chase away larger predators.

Deva Vatala National Park remains one of Pakistan’s most ecologically significant protected areas, serving as a sanctuary for both resident and migratory species while preserving the semi-arid forests and wetlands of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.