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The Sundarban - the
largest continuous block of mangrove forest in the
world. It is a part of the world's largest delta. About
one third of the total area of this forest is covered by
river channels and tidal creeks, varying in width from
just a few meters to 5 kilometers in some places! All
parts of the Sundarban forest are subject to tidal
inundation during spring tides. The Bangladesh part of
the forest is dominated by a high mangrove forest cover.
The climate is mainly tropical maritime with lots of
rain, most of which falls during the monsoon. The
monsoon season (May – October) is hot and humid, while
winter (October – February) is mild and dry. The entire
National Park area is covered by mangrove forest. There
are small patches of brackish marshes on emerging
islands and riverbanks, and sandy areas with grass and
low shrubs on some of the outer islands.
Sundarban is home to many different species of birds,
mammals, insects, reptiles and fishes. Over 120 species
of fish and over 270 species of birds have been recorded
in the Sundarban.
About 32 species of mammal are still found in this
forest. Among these are Rhesus Macaques, Clawless
Otters, Leopard Cats, Fishing Cats and Spotted Deer. The
entire Sundarban Forest comprises the largest remaining
tract of habitat for the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera
tigris). |
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