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Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park The park is located at Vanasthalipuram, at a distance of 15 km from the city. Initially the area was under the Nizam and later named after the renowned Jain saint 'Lord Mahavira' was established as a national park in 1975, in commemoration of his 2500th birth anniversary.
The main species of fauna found here is the endangered Black Buck, which once inhabited the grasslands and plains throughout India. Their main predator was the now extinct cheetah. Their glossy white dotted bodies, ranging from dark brown to black, accentuated by a white underbelly, their large lustrous eyes and mouth surrounded by white, are a study in contrast. There are over 400 black bucks (Amtelope Cervicapara), about 500 Cheetals and large herds of wild boar. Common animals seen here are monitor lizards, mongooses, porcupines besides a variety of snakes.
Several species of birds like Partridges, Quails, peacocks, Doves, pond herons, egrets, kingfishers, cormorants and birds of prey like kites, vultures etc. are found here. A variety of migratory birds of over 80 species can also be seen round the year. Short-toed Eagle is another rare species nesting in this area.
There are sheds for rest and observation towers for viewing the animals. A van is provided to take the visitors inside the park to see the animals from close quarters. The safari rides are between 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Rates of admission into Vanasthali in departmental van or mini bus are Rs.5/- per adult and Rs.3.00 per child. There is an exhibition hall displaying exhibits explaining intricate problems of wildlife conservation.
