Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar National Park, Bhavnagar, Gujarat - Gujarat places

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 Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar National Park, Bhavnagar, Gujarat - Gujarat places



The location being described is the Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, which is a delightful wildlife sanctuary located approximately an hour's drive north of Bhavnagar in the state of Gujarat, India. Here are some key details about the park:

1. **Park Size**: Velavadar Blackbuck National Park covers an area of about 34 square kilometers. Despite its relatively small size, the park is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

2. **Flora and Fauna**: The park is famous for its population of blackbucks, which are graceful and fast antelopes known for their elegant spiraling horns. Mature male blackbucks can have horns as long as 65 centimeters. There are approximately 1800 blackbucks inhabiting the park. Additionally, the park is home to blue bulls, also known as nilgai, which are India's largest gazelle. The park attracts wintering harriers from Siberia, with around 2000 of them visiting most years. Velavadar is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 120 species of birds that can be spotted in and around the park.

3. **Wildlife Viewing**: The best time to visit Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is early in the morning, as this offers the best chance to spot wildlife, including wolves. Blackbucks are relatively easy to spot during the day, but wolves are more elusive. The pale golden grasslands of the park are dotted with groups of blackbucks, and they tend to move around in gender-specific groups, with males and females having their own herds.

4. **Local Guides**: Hiring a local guide is mandatory when visiting the park. Guides not only help visitors navigate the park but also provide valuable information about the wildlife, their behavior, and the local way of life.

5. **History**: The sanctuary was established in July 1976 as an initial protected area covering approximately 18 square kilometers. In 1980, an additional 16 square kilometers were added, expanding the total area to 34 square kilometers. Despite its relatively small size compared to other national parks in India, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park offers a diverse range of wildlife species and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, witness the grace of blackbucks, and observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The park provides a unique opportunity to connect with the wilderness and learn about the remarkable flora and fauna that call this area home.