Geographic and climatic variations have contributed to diverse ecosystems, habitats and wildlife forms in the state.
Bird life abounds despite diminishing habitat space.
Some of the last remaining water bodies harbour a large population of migratory birds during the winter months. Apart from wildlife in its natural habitat, animals in captivity are to be seen in some famous zoos in West Bengal. One of the most popular landmarks in Calcutta is the Zoological Gardens, spread over nearly 100 acres in the heart of Alipur. Established in 1878 as a private, voluntary society, it has a large collection of birds and mammals. It also has an enclosure for reptiles, including a tortoise that is much older than the zoo itself.