Top 10 Endangered Species in Sundarbans That Can be Saved

Top 10 Endangered Species in Sundarbans That Can be Saved

Endangered Species in Sundarbans: The Sundarbans, which is located in the delta region of the Bay of Bengal, is living testimony to rich diversity with many endangered animals and birds in Sundarbans. Nevertheless, such a rich ecosystem has its own threats which endangers several species within it. In this article, we take a look at the Top 10 Endangered Species in Sundarbans and discuss their challenges and the nation of their rescue.

What are the Sundarbans And Endangered Species in Sundarbans?

Location and Description

The Els include Mangrove forests, mudflats and tidal rivers of approximately 10000 sq. km located in diabetics and India. It is the biggest mangrove in the world.

Biodiversity Hotspot

The Sundarbans hold biological conexceism that we have never seen before in such a delicate balance. That is a home for many endangered species as well.

Significance of Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, a gigantic swamp forest located mainly in Bangladesh and partially in Eastern India, is of great importance for several reasons. First, it acts as an important pillar of biodiversity, taking shelter in its numerous plant and animal life. Also, the factors of dense mangrove roots are useful in protecting the inhabitants settled along the coast from the adverse effects of storms and tidal waves, hence, reducing the severity of natural hazards. Also, Sundarbans provide food, employment in the fishing and honey collection sectors, and tourism for millions of people. The environment in this complex is responsible for economic activities and cultural practices that help the people living in it cope with the effects of resource depletion. Preservation of the Sundarbans then is not only an environmental issue, but rather it is a pressing socio-economic concern because of the imperative need it addresses towards the protection of the environment and human life as well.

Challenges Faced in the Protection of the Sundarbans for the Endangered Species in Sundarbans

An ecologically rich area known as the Sundarbans located on either side of the border between Bangladesh and India, is not immune to several threats that endanger its survival, as well as the well-being of the people within its confines.

1. Climate Crisis: The Sundarbans without a doubt are climate change ground zero, and face the most destructive sea level rise and weather changes. These changes disrupt the fragile equilibrium of its mangrove ecosystem making the region even more susceptible to the direct hit of the cyclones which have become more ferocious and more frequent than ever before.

2. Deforestation and Degradation of Natural Habitat: The sylvan expanse of the Sundarbans is under threat due to rampant deforestation caused by illegal logging and agriculture-related settlement and infrastructural development. This destruction reduces its role in acting as a buffer against coastal erosion as well as disturbing the complex balance of life in its biodiversity system.

3. Concerning Pollution: Waste from industries, untreated waste from cities and run-off from agricultural activities contaminate the watery and dry sections of Sundarbans making the water dangerous for aquatic animals and the local inhabitants who depend on fisheries. The quiet threat of the unregulated use of plastic suffocates the region’s fragile ecosystems.

4. Story of Violence: With human population centres advancing into lands occupied by wild animals, frictions will arise and often end sadly with deaths on both sides. Such is the case of the Sundarbans where there is a thin line separating the two acts of preservation and protection.

5. Unsustainable Use of Resources: Activities like over-exploitation of fish stocks, excessive cutting and removing of timber, or uncontrolled harvesting of forest resources are stripping the treasures of the Sundarbans. These practices have a threatening effect not only on the economies of the populations living in the coastal zones but also on the carrying capacity of the system as well.

Using the Sundarbans takes a harmonious mix of efforts: a sustainable management plan, community conservation, and international support are all critical in today’s context. Only through the collective effort can be guaranteed that this national treasure will be preserved for the future as a source of inspiration and life.

Top 10 Endangered Species in Sundarbans | 10 Most Endangered Animals in Sunderban

Adventurous Expeditions, a travel company specialized in conducting Personalized Tours in the Sundarbans has a range of attractive travel packages in India. However, such a fragile ecosystem, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is under severe threat today, as many species are on the heels of extinction. Among these threatened species, the King Animal, the Royal Bengal Tiger, appears to be at the top of the list, but his existence suffers from the risks of habitat destruction and conflict with human beings. Here is the list of the Top 10 Endangered Species in Sundarbans Forest that must be saved.

 Also, check out the Top 10 Animals in India that must be saved.

1. Bengal Tiger

The Bengal Tiger is the no 1 endangered species in Sundarbans. The Royal Bengal Tiger, Panthera tigris tigris, is the depiction of grace and strength in the tribe of felines. Tiger, the giant cat species, also makes his way in the intricate mangrove swamps of the Sundarbans wearing a coat of additional cotton fabric striped in colour to the rays of sun penetrating the forest. However, this royal-sized animal has an unsettling truth about the way of life in the eastern region of the Indian subcontinent.

The existence of unsustainable habitat modifications because of human activities is a major threat in the Sundarbans. Pervasive activities such as agriculture and construction encroaching on the forest devastate the tiger’s habitat, reducing it to a few fragments and segregating the habitats. The continuous progress of people dominating the mangrove forest regions harms the existence of tigers, making them more endangered.

Another threat that adds to this is the problem of people and animals coexisting together. Where there were no people before, more and more dogs begin to appear, and before long confrontations with the dogs within the tiger territory become the order of the day. Poaching or hunting that causes harm to the local livestock leads to further organized poaching to kill the tigers which aggravates the existing tension between preservation and development. The majestic Bengal Tiger had served the Indian populace as an emblem of pride and power but now stands waiting for its turn in the race of living, a race, the outcome of which is not guaranteed for its existence anymore.

As of 2024, the population dynamics of tigers inhabiting Sundarbans still remain unclear. However, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve has also been conducting tiger census surveys every year in their efforts to keep track of the tiger population. Earlier census data by the year 2023, showed approximately 101 tigers recorded in the Sundarbans. Provisions are in progress to protect and maintain the peace of these adorable animals.

2. Estuarine Crocodile

The Estuarine Crocodile, Crocodylus porosus, is another primitive geographical predator that oppressed the swampy Sundarbans. This crocodile is also one of the most endangered species in Sundarbans. The word apex predator certainly encapsulates the towering outline with that ox-like jaw and armoured scales that personify the aggression and grace that age-old crocodiles possess. However, such a cold-blooded killer carries the greatest paradox in it; that of the survival of the estuarine crocodile as a species.

Natural Habitat Loss is a longstanding challenge faced by the Sundarbans region, Estuarine Crocodile and its relatives seem to be receiving a death sentence here. The non-stop wave of cutting down trees and changing land use advances the freshwater intake of the crocodile, robbing it of important sites for it to lay its eggs and sunbathe. Further threatening this evolutionary survivor is the illegal eating of this reptile for its meat and skin only bringing this reptile closer to danger of extinction.

A population survey of Estuarine Crocodiles within Sundarbans is in progress as of the year 2024. Another Yayasan Akar survey carried out after 12 years in 2012 estimated approximately 140 crocodiles within the boundaries. However, the latest censuses of 2024 have not yet undergone publication. On the other hand, in the adjacent Bhitarkanika Mangroves, located in Odisha, an annual census in 2024 counted 1,811 Saltwater crocodiles prepared for the same purpose in Bhitarkanika Mangroves confirming the necessity of similar exercises in the Sundarbans’ facilities for the monitoring of crocodile population.

3. Irrawaddy Dolphin

Way down in the Sundarbans, in the brackish waters, the Irrawaddy Dolphin, Orcaella brevirostris, exchanges pearls. In this respect, the mangroves, and the inertia of this dolphin with a projecting mouth and a bulging forehead add to its rugged yet appealing characteristics on more levels than one. There however lies a saga of trouble and conflict below the surface.

The future of the Irrawaddy Dolphin has dark prospects owing to habitat degradation as human actions are destroying the fragile ecosystems that it relies on. Stray fishing nets and lines present a significant threat to this otherwise gregarious river monster and cause innumerable deaths to this gentle humongous overgrown fish of the wetlands. In Sundarbans’ waters, where the access of humanity is increasing, without immediate measures protecting its territory and the species from such intrusion, the destiny of the Irrawaddy dolphin is doomed.

In the Sundarbans, which is mainly in Bangladesh, there are about six thousand Irrawaddy dolphins, one of the endangered species in Sundarbans. The Sundarbans are partly located in India and partially in Bangladesh. However, the majority of the Irrawaddy dolphins inhabit the Sundarbans situated in Bangladesh.

4. Fishing Cat

In the dense mangrove wood of Sundarbans, the Fishing Cat, Prionailurus viverrinus, moves with ferocity and poise among the twisted roots. With webbed paws and abilities that make great use of water, this shy cat is a true champion of evolutionary victory. With such a dedication to hunting, however, the Fishing Cat becomes the victim of various threats. This is also one of the most endangered species in Sundarbans.

The threat of habitat destruction in wetlands is a burden the Fishing Cat population and range will have to face because of human activities; advancement is compromised. Loss of environmental services and food resources for the feline comes in handy, leading the fishing cat history to maybe become extinct. If conservation measures to protect the sped-up shrinkage of the Fishing Cat’s habitats and prevent human-wildlife conflicts are not put in place, the Fishing Cat’s survival is under threat in the ravaging wilderness of the Sundarbans.

As of 2024, there isn’t precise information on how many of these fishing cats are left in the Sundarbans. However, survey research in 2022 noted the existence of around 385 fishing cats within the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. Protecting and managing these species, which includes establishing a conservative breeding program, safeguards the exponential growth of Fishing cats within that particular area.

5. The Masked Finfoot

One of the most endangered species in Sundarbans, the Masked Finfoot, Heliopais personatus, is an ethereal bird that silently masks itself in the darkest corners of the Sundarbans. The bird is so cryptic and avoids humans so acutely that the very attempt to encounter the bird is filled with excitement and intrigue. Still, even with all the challenges that this species ovlo-ronosov has, the Masked Finfoot is confronted with the sad reality of the destruction of its environment and the interference of people.

Premises depletion for its conservation presents a great danger for the future of the Masked Banded Finfoot as its natural surroundings keep on diminishing with human encroachment. Also, other forms of human activities impose threats to this particular shy and elusive bird, aggravating the already precarious situation in the impenetrable mangrove forests. If no serious efforts are made to protect the Masked Finfoot’s habitat and the threats posed by humans… it is obvious the Masked Finfoot’s prospects in the remaining wildernesses of the Sundarbans are very dim.

6. The Olive Ridley - Oceans' Wonders

In the Sundarbans under the bright moon, the motionless Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, Lepidochelys Olivacea, sets forth a voyage of ages and survival. With its history dating back centuries and its beauty intact, this creature is a representation of many… Living, battling against unfavourable conditions. However, the Survivor- The Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, is also caught up fighting numerous man-induced and other factors that threaten the very existence of the adults and the hatchlings.

The shielding systems against stress factors such as pollution and human activities tend to graduate as the range of the Olive Riders ecosystem is transformed by civilization. Indiscriminate spilling of this friendly ocean giant into fishing nets attacks death to so many in cruel evolutional positioning. Without prompt action developing measures to protect the area’s natural resources and resolution of encroachment issues, the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle re-enters the territories of the Sundarbans with a high level of uncertainty.

7. Mangrove Horseshoe Crab

Hidden amidst the wriggling sands of the Sundarbans, Carcinoscorpius Rotundicauda or mangrove horseshoe crab goes forth, moving those present with knowledge and beauty from the past. Bearing an armoured carapace and coming from a lineage believed to have existed many thousands of years ago, the marine arthropod is the quintessential image of life that has endured in the mangrove swamps. As a species that can be observed in a host of environments, the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab must nevertheless battle the assault of habitat destruction and overuse which threatens to obliterate it.

An unsettling truth persists threatening the existence of the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab and that is habitat destruction due to human interference with the already limited occupancy of this species. Also, the medical research abuse pushes this iconic creature further towards its endpoints. If there is no timely measure to protect the Mangrove Horseshoe Crab’s ecosystem from anthropogenic pressures, as well as these pressures themselves, the future of the species in crisis will be very bleak within the changing shores of the Sundarbans.

8. Pink-Headed Dolphin

One of the many mysterious inhabitants of the Brahmaputra river basin is the Ganges river dolphin, Platanista gangetica, which swims in the condensed waters of the Sundarbans. With a beak like an alligator

This minimizes effort in activities such as lunging and weaving. This creature’s will to go on despite all challenges is what makes the excellently evolved species, the Ganges River Dolphin, such an enigmatically glorious creature. However, its glory as a survivor is not sufficient to keep the Ganges River Dolphin out of trouble created by man.

Given the degradation of habitat that is projected to worsen in the future, it is difficult to overstate how human endeavours are ruining fragile ecosystems that the Ganges River Dolphin relies upon. Even more dangerous is the fact that this playful animal found in the rivers faces pollution as its habitat is infiltrated with harmful waste. The outlook is even worse for the Ganges River Dolphin in the Sundarbans after the authorities take into consideration the negative impact of human activities on the environment and the loss of the Ganges River Dolphin’s corridor.

In the year 2024, the population of the Ganges River Dolphin inhabiting the Sundarbans is projected to be around 225 individuals. Nonetheless, these dolphins are unable to thrive because of the increasing salinity of the water and the diminished influx of freshwater in the region. These efforts include enlisting the help of local communities to implement measures to protect these dolphins which are considered to be at a great risk of extinction.

9. Saltwater Crocodile

 It is located in the core area of the Sundarbans. Crocodylus porosus: the saltwater crocodile is an apex predator found at the top of food webs. The wall of armoured scales and jaw of this young ancient reptile showcases both the ferocity and the beauty of crocodiles. The amazing saltwater crocodile which is a seasoned survivor has its fair share of threats. It is at great risk due to habitat destruction and hunting.

While encroachment by mankind into its ever-shrinking range creates obstacles to the survival of the saltwater crocodile, the destruction of its habitat is even more pervasive. The danger does not stop with the destruction of the habitat. This otherwise fierce killer is also under threat as the waterways where it dwell are filled with pollutants. Without urgent intervention to safeguard its habitat and mitigate the perils of human exploitation, the saltwater crocodile has a bleak existence in the dark waters of the Sundarbans.

10. King Cobra

The longest of all venomous snakes, Ophiophagus Hannah weaves through the intricate jungle brush of the Sundarbans with menace and stealth. The King Cobra’s size and venom make this snake both fascinating as well as frightening. But then again, this is the very snake that finds itself constantly hunting to survive.

First, habitat alteration presents a long-term threat to the future of the King Cobra, as people continue to invade its shrinking territory. The perception of this impressive snake by many that leads to its killing is another reason for the threats faced by King Cobras. Unless there is a change to protect its home, especially from human beings, there is no future for the great snake in the ever-shrinking Sundarbans.

In summation, the Sundarbans have reached a critical point, which is a stage where the environment is threatened with all possible impacts. Thus, there is great urgency to put in place mechanisms that will protect the different ways of life and fauna in the region before it becomes too late. Through active protection and restoration of changes in the use of the forest, its magnificence shall be preserved for everyone even in the future.

Preservation Strategies for Sundarbans

Strategies aimed at the protection of the Sundarbans and its vulnerable fauna entail the creation of complementary zones, community participation and education, and research and monitoring.

Complimentary Zones

A few complimentary zones have been declared within the Sundarbans to protect its biological diversity as well as encourage better management of its resources.

Contingent Intervention

Local communities fulfil an essential function in the conservation process using offering alternative income sources, information dissemination and taking part in management decisions.

How Can You Help These Endangered Species in Sundarbans?

The residents can do a lot for the conservation of the Sundarbans through the following measures. It helps ensure that the local community benefits from tourism while adverse effects on the environment are minimised by promoting responsible tourism or services such as eco-friendly hotels and tour operators. Furthermore, the effects of climatic change, which is a threat to the Sundarbans and other ecosystems, can be mitigated through actions such as conserving energy, using public transport, and promoting clean energy use. Measures that emphasize the need for good environmental policy such as policies that encourage the use of alternative sources of energy, protection of forests and waters against poaching and overfishing, and creation of more reserves would also be beneficial in protecting the ecosystem in question. When these actions are taken collectively, individuals can truly contribute to the protection of the Sundarbans for posterity.

Inquiries and Their Answers Concerning Endangered Species in Sundarbans.

The Sundarbans Are Endangered for What Reasons?

The Sundarbans, in definition, regions with biodiversity of high ecological importance are under threat for several reasons. Added to other concerns, human beings' invasion within the region, including activities like deforestation, overfishing and even pollution endanger the biological organisms in the area. Ever-increased poaching and illegal housing developments within the jungles result in the destruction of natural habitats, causing several animals and birds to become extinct. Additionally, global warming has made it worse as it causes rises in sea levels, hyacinth water breeding systems changes, and excessive rainfall patterns, thereby affecting the relations in an ecosystem along with the movements of various species.

What Animals Are Extinct in the Sundarbans?

Although many species are threatened in the Sundarbans, it is a great relief that many are not reported to be extinct for the time being. Habitat destruction and increasing rates of human-animal contact are, however, pushing several species towards extinction. All in all, the biodiversity loss impact of whose threats are being addressed in this ecosystem calls for concerted efforts for monitoring and conservation all the time.

What Endemic Species Are Found in Sundarbans in the World?

There are many endemic species found in the Sundarbans which well adapted to its brackish water. More specifically, such endemic species are commonly referred to as the Sundarbans tiger (Royal Bengal tiger), Sundarbans Irrawaddy dolphin, Ganges dolphin (Platanista gangetica), Olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea), smooth otter (Lutrogale perspicillata), Gavialis (Gavialis gangeticus) species, as well as the greater adjutant stork (Leptoptilos dubius), masked finfoot (Heliopais personata), and Sundarbans estuary crocodilians (Estuarine crocodile). These species specifically evolved to the Ecozone of the Sundarbans and are experiencing a lot of issues due to environmental changes and anthropogenic factors. 

Final Words of Endangered Species in Sundarbans

While the majority of the issues concerning the endangered species of the Sundarbans are discussed, it is quite obvious that immediate measures have to be taken to prevent factors threatening their existence. It still shows promise that with all the difficulties faced, conservation measures will transform the fate of this region that is of great ecological importance. Where the threats of extinction are identified, there is hope that development will occur sensibly, and will protect the Sundarbans and its rich biological heritage for future generations.

What is the population of the Royal Bengal Tigers in Sundarbans at present?

Darshan estimates that there are issues of about 400 of the Royal Bengal Tigers remaining in Sundarbans.

What do you think I can do to save the Sundarbans from destruction? 

You can help them by joining the efforts of rehabilitation groups, practising sustainable activities, and educating others on the need and relevance of preserving the Sundarbans.

Can you give an example of successful initiatives that have taken place in the Sundarbans?

Yes, there have been successful initiatives, for instance, sponsored community conservation projects, zoning maps and infrastructure developments in the centre region, which have helped in the conservation of the Sundarbans and its biodiversity.