Jan 19 2009
Of Flora and Fauna
The Bhutanese people people live in close harmony with nature as propounded by Buddhism—the predominant religion practiced in Bhutan. The Bhutanese hold their natural environment in high regard, as they see it as the abode of the Gods and the spirits they venerate. Under the influence of Buddhism since the seventh century AD, the Bhutanese people have always looked to preserve the virginity of their environment.
Home to more than 700 species of birds and above 50 species of rhododendrons, apart from an astounding assortment of medicinal plants and orchids, Bhutan holds the distinction of being one of the 10 bio-diversity hotspots and 221 endemic bird areas of the world. Other members of the wildlife include bluesheep, elephant, golden langur, snow leopard, and water buffalo, besides the national animal takin.
