Garbhanga Reserve Forest: A Treasure Trove of Biodiversity

Located on the southwestern side of Guwahati city, bordering the state of Meghalaya, Garbhanga Reserve Forest is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Spread over an area of 117 square kilometres, the reserve is home to a vast array of flora and fauna. The reserve forest boasts a diverse range of flora, with 139 species of trees, including bamboo, teak, and sal. Additionally, 122 herbs and shrubs, 52 species of climbers, 11 species of orchids, and five species of bamboo and rattan have been documented. It is also home to a variety of fauna, including 36 species of mammals, such as elephants, Asiatic water buffalo, and the Great Indian One-Horned Rhino. The reserve forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with 219 species of birds documented, including the Kalij Pheasant, Rufous Woodpecker, Common Green Magpie, Golden-fronted Leafbird, and Himalayan Griffon. Other bird species found in the reserve forest include the Blue-eared Kingfisher, Black-backed Dwarf-Kingfisher, White-throated Kingfisher, Great Barbet, Lineated Barbet, Blue-throated Barbet, White-browed Piculet, Rufous Woodpecker, Pale-headed Woodpecker, Lesser Yellownape, Greater Yellownape, Oriental Cuckooshrike, Great Slaty Woodpecker (Mulleripicus pulverulentus), and White-bellied Erpornis. Garbhanga RF also has a small population of Hoolock Gibbons. Shy creatures, delightful to watch these apes when they swing and leap on tall tree canopies. The reserve forest is also home to 38 species of reptiles, 15 species of amphibians, 168 species of butterflies, and 15 species of spiders. The Garbhanga Reserve forest is a vital urban wildlife site and catchment area near Guwahati city.

Great Slaty Woodpecker: The world’s largest known woodpecker species with a size of 51 cm. The male has a bit of orange coloured streak around on its throat and cheek.