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 are in place to enhance wildlife
viewing in this unique habitat.
The SafariTravelling
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 activitiesExcursions 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.
