Bhutan is one of the last remaining biodiversity hotspots in the world; forest cover has now increased to over 72% of the country, with 60% of the country under protection. The conservation efforts and the wide altitude and climate range, have contributed to a wide array of flora and fauna. Essentially the country can be divided into three zones: alpine, temperate and sub-tropical. Owing to that, fir, mixed conifer, blue pine, chirpine, broadleaf mixed with conifer, hardwood are the major species of forest types.   With about 300 species of medicinal plants, Bhutan also has a variety of about 46 species of rhododendron. Magnolias, orchids, junipers, gentian, Daphne and giant rhubarb can be seen commonly in the country.
Bhutan also has a wide range of rare and endangered animals dwelling in the high mountains and dense jungles. The conservation efforts and the unspoiled nature support thriving populations of some of the rarest animals on earth.  Bengal tigers have been found in an altitude ranging from 3000 to 4000 meters, while the snow leopards live in the high-altitude cold mountains. The red pandas, the golden langurs-this a species of monkey unique to Bhutan, the gorals, the Himalayan black bears, wild bears, barking deer, sambars, blue sheep and musk dear are also some of the rare animals living in the eco-system. Additionally, down south, the tropical forests house the clouded leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, water buffalos and swamp deer.

A great variety of bird species are also found in Bhutan. It is recognized as the East Himalayan ‘hot spot’ with a hub of 221 global endemic bird areas housing over 670 species of bird species, and the numbers will increase as new species are discovered. From birds that migrate during winter like the buntings, waders, ducks, thrushes and birds of prey; to a great variety of partial migrant species such as swifts, cuckoos, bee-eaters, fly catchers and warblers. Furthermore, 16 endangered species like White bellied heron, Pallas Fish eagle, Blyth’s King fisher  and the Black Necked cranes make home in Bhutan.

Bhutan has always committed to preserve and protect its rich environment. Now as one of the global hotspots, Bhutan is strengthening its commitment through various government and environmental organizations, such as the National Environmental Commission (NEC) and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature Clubs (RSPN), to name a few. These organizations are mandated to conserve the environment and preserve the rich bio-diversity.