OT Staff
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast unique species, such as the Andaman wild pig, Nicobar tree shrew, and Andaman horseshoe bat.
The surrounding waters teem with coral reefs, sea turtles (like the Leatherback and Olive Ridley), dugongs (the state animal), and reef sharks.
Over 270 species of birds such as the violet cuckoo inhabit the islands. Endemic ones like the Andaman woodpecker or Nicobar pigeon are also found here.
The islands are home to several endemic reptiles, such as the Andaman day gecko, Andaman cobra, and saltwater crocodiles.
Several species, including the dugong and the Nicobar megapode, are classified as vulnerable or endangered due to habitat loss and human activity.
The forests host a variety of wild orchids and ferns, including rare species like the Andaman pitcher plant, a carnivorous plant.
Some beaches and lagoons, such as those at Swaraj Dweep, are known for their bioluminescent plankton that wash up on the shores, creating a magical blueish glow at night.
The islands have dense tropical rainforests with over 2,200 plant species, including many endemic ones like the Andaman redwood (Pterocarpus dalbergioides).