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Hooheriana, Farmeri and
Amoneum. The state flower is the Nobile Orchid of the
Dendrobium.
RHODODENDRONS
There are about 36 species of rhododendrons in Sikkim
found at heights of 10,000 ft.Their variety is as diverse
as the sizes and colours. From the giant Rhododendron
Crande [over 40ft] to the Rhododendron Nivale(a few-inches
off the ground), and from the blood red to pale white. The
delicate but hardy Primula are found at heights of 12,000
ft. and above. The Himalayan rhubarb is a unique feature
of this area, standing upright like candles in the arid
vast.
FAUNA
Since the area of Sikkim ranges from the tropical to the
alpine, the flora and fauna is unique in its diversity.
Nowhere else on earth does such a small area comprise of
so many species and varieties. Even the seemingly
Himalayan desert landscape in the North has plethora of
wild ducks and wild asses that roam the plains.
The natural wealth of Sikkim has been surveyed in detail
by, among others, Dr J.D. Hooker in the mid 20th century
and more recently by the celebrated ornithologist of
India, Dr Salim Ali, who was also known as the "Birdman".
 Sikkim has more than 5000 species of avifauna ranging from
the majestic Bearded Vulture with a wingspan of over 10
ft. to the Olive Ground Warbler, just a few inches in
length. Other delightful species include the Emerald Dove,
woodpeckers, cuckoos, Kingfishers, and the fairy blue
bird.
Sikkim also has more than 600 species of Butterflies many
of them rare and endangered. The forests resound to the
bark of the Barking Deer which shares it's habitat with
the adorable little Red panda [also the state animal]. The
Musk Deer, Leopard cats, and flying squirrels to name a
few. The higher regions have Blue Sheep known commonly as
the Bharal, the, Shapi which is similar to the Himalayan
Tahr, the Tibetan Wild Ass, locally known as the Kyang and
the Himalayan Black Bear.
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