Concerted efforts from authorities to preserve these species and increase their numbers have produced favorable results but the ever-present danger of plummeting population is still present. 
Tourists in Thekkady will not have returned from their sightseeing tours without catching a glimpse of Elephant herds at lake fringes. These colossal animals roam the vast grasslands of Thekkady and are frequently encountered during sightseeing tours. 
Sambar, the largest deer in India, are extensively distributed and constitute the principal prey base of the tiger. The wild pig is an opportunistic feeder and is found in large numbers across the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady. The highly endangered Nilgiri Tahr are found in high altitude grasslands and a vacationer can consider himself fortunate if able to catch a glimpse of them. Another endangered animal is the Lion Tailed Macaque. The Malabar Giant Squirrel and the Large Flying Squirrel are frequently found in the area. Salim Ali's bat, considered to be one of the rarest of bat species, is endemic to Thekkady.
Although the Tiger are present in large numbers in and around the Periyar Tiger Reserve, sightings are understandably rare due to thick vegetation and safety concerns resulting from encounters. 
Thekkady is rich in bird life with 266 documented species. Birds such as Malabar Hornbill, Grey heron, Jungle fowl and Jungle Mynah are common sights. 
Although deforestation and human enroachment have lead to a sharp decline in wildlife population worldwide in general and in India, in particular, rigorous conservation techniques are employed to maintain the pristinity of Thekkady and the Periyar Tiger Reserve. With growing concerns over the endangerement of fauna around the world, Thekkady's wildlife is a testimony to the harmony between man and nature.