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Sikkim
exhibits a large variety in the animal world to match its floral delights.
Birds, species and reptiles are all present in Sikkim's animal kingdom.
The tremendous variety of faunal attractions can be derived from the fact
that 50% of the 1,400 butterfly species that exist in the Indian
Subcontinent are to be found in Sikkim. Among other animal species are the
elusive Snow Leopard and the rare Clouded Leopard.
Yak - a domesticated animal of Sikkim, survive above 10,000 ft and
can live without food for days together. Chumpi is a hardened cheese is
made of Yak milk. Crossbreeds of a Yak with Cow are known as "Dzo"
and it can survive at lower altitudes.
Shapi - Discovered by a german Dr. Emest Scholfer in 1938, is an
endangered animal, not bigger than a mountain goat, with long white mane.
Red Panda - The two feet long, the "state animal" of
Sikkim, Red Panda inhabits on treetops, a vegetarian is found in the
mountain forests at between 6,000-12,000 ft above sea level.
Himalayan Bear - Found in temperate forests, a vegetarian, living
mostly on corn, wild plants, honey, etc.
Birds - Over 500 species of birds from bearded Vulture to olive
ground Wabler are found in Sikkim. The most colourful birds include,
Emerald Dove, Fairy Blue Bird, Kingfisher, Ashy Woodpecker, Suntan Tit and
the Emerald Cuckoo. State bird of Sikkim is "Blood Pheasant"