Wildlife of Panna National Park
Fauna in Panna
Panna National Park is known for its rugged cliffs, river valleys, teak forests, and the presence of both land and river wildlife. The Ken River flows through the park, which adds a unique mix of animals not commonly seen together in other central Indian reserves.
Tigers, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and jackals roam the forest, while gharials, crocodiles, and turtles stay active around the river. Vultures circle over the cliffs, and many birds use the riverbanks and plateaus as resting points. This combination of habitats makes Panna one of the most varied parks in Madhya Pradesh.

30+
Royal Bengal Tiger
250+
Bird Species
40+
Butterfly Species
25+
Reptiles & Amphibians
Mammals
Panna is home to more than 35 species of mammals.

Bengal Tigers

Indian Leopard

Striped Hyena

Spotted Deer

Bison

Golden Jackal

Sambhar Deer

Langur

Rusty Spotted Cat

Little Indian Civet

Leopard Cat

Jungle Cat
Birds
Bird lovers enjoy Panna because the Ken River attracts both resident and migratory birds. The cliffs around the river also support several vulture species.

Indian Pitta

Indian Roller

Peafowl

Racket-tailed Drongo

Indian Black Ibis

Asian Openbill

Indian Scops Owl

Rufous Treepie

Red Spurfowl

Oriental Turtle Dove

Indian Grey Hornbill

Common Hoopoe
Reptiles
The Ken River makes Panna one of the best places in central India to see river reptiles. The cliffs and grasslands also support many terrestrial species.

Sand Boa

Checkered Keelback

Russell’s Viper

Spectacled Cobra

Indian Rock Python

Common Krait

Common Vine Snake

Common Wolf Snake

Indian Garden Lizard

Indian Monitor Lizard

Common Skink

Banded Kukri Snake
FAQs - Wildlife in Panna
What animal is Panna most famous for
Panna is known for its tigers, leopards, vultures, and gharials near the Ken River.
How many species of mammals are found in Panna
The park has more than 35 species of mammals along with over 250 species of birds.
Can leopards be seen in Panna
Yes, Panna is one of the better places to see leopards because of its rocky terrain.
Which zones are best for spotting wildlife in Panna
Madla and Kishangarh offer good tiger and leopard activity. Hinouta is excellent for herbivores and birds. Jhinna is known for its river sightings.
Are reptiles commonly seen during safaris
Yes, crocodiles, gharials, pythons, and monitor lizards are often seen around the Ken River and rocky areas.
