5 animals that thrive on both land and water, and where to spot them

The animal kingdom is fascinating and beyond human imagination. There are some animals which have evolved and they live comfortably both on land and in water. These animals can live easily between rivers, wetlands and forests. These amphibious or semi-aquatic creatures are not only biological marvels but are also a major attraction for wildlife travellers. Here are five animals that can easily survive on land and in water, and where to spot them.

Crocodiles are ancient amphibious predators. Do you know, crocodiles are also one of the oldest surviving reptiles on the planet. These creatures remain largely unchanged for millions of years and have perfectly adapted for both land and water. With the help of their powerful tails and strong limbs, they hunt and rule the world of water and land.

Where to spot them in India:

In India, the best place to witness crocodiles in their natural habitat is the Sundarbans, Bhitarkanika National Park, renowned for the country’s highest crocodile populations. Globally, crocodiles can be seen in Australia’s Northern Territory and in Africa, among others.

Hippopotamus have also adapted to land and water well in years. Despite their bulky appearance, these cute creatures are surprisingly quick in water. They can spend days inside in rivers and lakes to stay cool, and come out at night to graze on land.

Where to spot them:

Africa offers some of the world’s most dramatic sightings. Serengeti National Park and Kruger National Park are known for their hippo populations.

Frogs are the ultimate amphibian. These species start their life as aquatic tadpoles before transforming into land livers. Their permeable skin allows them to survive on both land and water.

Where to spot them:

The Western Ghats in India are known for its frog population, many of them endemic. During the rainy season, forests in Kerala and Karnataka also come alive with frog calls. Internationally, Amazon Basin is also frog-watching heaven.

Turtles are like nature’s beautiful gift. These slow but steady survivors are known for their ability to navigate both land and water. Freshwater and sea turtles spend most of their lives in water but must come ashore to lay eggs.

Where to spot them:

India’s Chilika Lake is a major habitat for freshwater turtles and a seasonal stopover for migratory species. The beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are globally renowned for sea turtle nesting. Go to the Galápagos Islands if you wish to witness giant tortoises.

Otters are one of the cutest semi-aquatic mammals. These are intelligent, playful and well adapted to live on land and water. They live on fish in water but rest, breed, and raise young on land. Thanks to their webbed feet, these are agile swimmers.

Where to spot them:

In India, otters can be spotted in the rivers of Corbett National Park and the mangroves of the Sundarbans. Globally, Scotland’s coastal regions and Japan’s rivers offer perfect sightings.