What is the Kaziranga Tiger Reserve and why is it significant?

The Kaziranga Tiger Reserve is a protected area in the Indian state of Assam that is home to a large number of endangered species, including the one-horned rhinoceros and the Bengal tiger. The reserve covers an area of over 1,000 square kilometers and is located in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River.

Established in 1905, Kaziranga was declared a national park in 1974 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It is one of the most significant protected areas in India, not just because of its unique biodiversity, but also because it has been successful in conserving it. Kaziranga is one of the few places in the world where the population of the one-horned rhinoceros has actually increased.

Kaziranga Tiger Reserve is significant because it is not just a wildlife sanctuary, but also an important buffer zone that protects the surrounding areas from flooding. The reserve is home to over 70 species of mammals, including elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer, as well as over 450 species of birds.