Priority Landscapes in South Asia

Terai Arc Landscape - India, Nepal

Three endangered large mammals coexist at the base of the Himalayas, making this one of the few places in the world where tigers, elephants and rhinos still roam.

A diverse array of hoofed mammals supports the tiger populations in this area shared by India and Nepal - a landscape where elephant grass reaches seven metres by the end of the monsoons. This overlaps the Terai-Duar savannas and grasslands Global 200 Ecoregion. Here, authorities in both countries claim a combined total estimate of more than 600 tigers.

WWF has been working with local partners to strengthen anti-poaching efforts, and to reduce threats to the natural habitat, in India and Nepal. Work is now under way to decrease pressure on natural forests in order to reduce conflict.

Securing natural corridors
On the Indian side, efforts have been started to secure two corridors - Lagga Bagga and Rajaji-Corbett - which will allow tigers to live, breed and disperse in a larger area. Already some of the restored habitats are showing signs of use by tigers for breeding. The long-term aim is to secure a well-connected habitat for the whole landscape.

Armed conflicts taking their toll
Recently, this landscape has been affected by insurgency and political unrest in Nepal. Many years of hard work are at risk, and there is a grave threat to the survival of tigers and other wildlife. The Terai Arc Landscape is also a WWF AREAS priority landscape.