Barda Wildlife Sanctuary |
Why in News: Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is currently under consideration as a potential site for the reintroduction of the Asiatic lion.
About Barda Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Proximity to Porbandar Coast:Situated approximately 15 km away from the Porbandar coast in Gujarat, the wildlife sanctuary occupies a strategic location.
- Ethnic Diversity:Inhabitants of this region of Saurashtra include various ethnic groups like Maldharis, Bharvads, Rabaris, and Gadhvis.
- Rich Floral Variety:The sanctuary boasts abundant floral diversity, featuring species such as Gorad, Dhav, Rayan, Amli, Dhudhlo, among others.
- Suitable Habitat for Prey Species: The habitat within the sanctuary is conducive for wild ungulates like Sambar, chital, and chinkara, providing an ample prey base for large carnivores such as lions.
Ernakulum National Park |
Why in News: Eravikulam National Park in Kerala unveils its inaugural fernarium, marking the state’s first.
About Eravikulam National Park:
- Geographical Location: Situated in the High Ranges, specifically the Kannan Devan Hills, within the Idukki District of Kerala, the park is nestled amidst the Southern Western Ghats.
- Terrain Characteristics:The park’s landscape comprises expansive high-rolling plateaus, defining its topographical features.
- Diverse Plant Life: Varied plant communities, including grasslands, shrubs, and shola forests, adorn the park. Notably, it is renowned for hosting the rare Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom only once every 12 years.
- Rich Wildlife: Eravikulam National Park harbors a diverse range of fauna, including significant populations of endangered species such as Civet cats, Nilgiri Tahr, and Jungle cats.
Hasdeo Aranya |
Why in News: In recent times, the Hasdeo forest has become a focal point for tribal protests subsequent to the approval of Parsa coal mining operations.
About Hasdeo forest:
- Rich Biodiversity:Situated in the northern region of Chhattisgarh, the Hasdeo forest is renowned for its diverse flora and significant coal deposits.
- Indigenous Inhabitants:The forest is inhabited by the Gond tribe along with other indigenous communities.
- River and Wildlife: The Hasdeo River, a tributary of the Mahanadi, meanders through the forest, while the area serves as a crucial migratory route for elephants.
- Vegetation:Dominated by Sal and Teak trees, the flora of the region contributes to its ecological richness.
- Protected Areas: The forest is connected to adjacent protected areas such as the Bhoramdev Wildlife Sanctuary, Achanakmar Tiger Reserve, and Kanha Tiger Reserve.
- Coal Mining Presence:The Hasdeo reserve is host to 18 identified coal mines, highlighting its significance in mineral resource extraction.
- Legal Status:Being listed in the Vth Schedule of the Constitution, the acquisition of land in the area necessitates consultation and recommendations from the Gram Sabha, ensuring community involvement in decision-making processes.
Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary |
Why in News: The Chhattisgarh Forest Department recently accomplished the relocation of four sub-adult wild buffaloes from Assam to the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chhattisgarh.
About Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Crucial Rivers:The sanctuary is nourished by the vital rivers Balmedhi, Jonk, and Mahanadi, serving as lifelines for its ecosystem.
- Vegetation Diversity:The flora within the sanctuary includes species such as Teak, Sal, and others, contributing to its rich biodiversity.
- Diverse Wildlife:The sanctuary is home to a variety of fauna, including Cheetal, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, and other species.
Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary |
Why in News: Concerns have arisen regarding the migration patterns of long-ranging animals due to the sparse population of elephants in the Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary.
About Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Origin of the Name: The sanctuary derives its name from the narrow segment of the Mahanadi River called “Sat-kosh,” highlighting its significance in Odisha’s tiger habitat.
- Consolidation as Tiger Reserve:Initially established as separate entities, the Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipali Sanctuary were amalgamated and designated as the Satkosia Tiger Reserve in 2007.
- Diverse Wildlife:The sanctuary is home to a variety of fauna, including Sloth bears, Gaurs, sambar deer, spotted deer, and other species.
