Bhadra Tiger Reserve UPSC

Bhadra Tiger Reserve, also known as Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Muthodi Wildlife Sanctuary), is a protected area located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is named after the Bhadra River that flows through the sanctuary.

Conservation efforts in Bhadra Tiger Reserve focus on protecting the tiger population, preserving the natural habitat, and promoting sustainable tourism.

The reserve plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region and contributes to the overall conservation of the Western Ghats' biodiversity.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Hills
River
Lake
Tribe
Flora
Fauna

Mammals
Birds
Butterflies
Reptile

UPSC Questions

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Location

Bhadra Tiger Reserve is located in Chikmagalur district (Chikmagalur, Narashimarajapura and Tarikere Taluks) and Shimoga district (Bhadravathi Taluk) of Karnataka, India.

It is situated in the southern part of the state, approximately 275 kilometers (170 miles) northwest of Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Bhadra Tiger Reserve is Mangalore International Airport, located approximately 175 kilometers (109 miles) away. It takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach the tiger reserve from the airport by road.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Bhadra Tiger Reserve is Kadur Railway Station, which is situated around 75 kilometers (47 miles) away. From Kadur Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the tiger reserve.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve History

Bhadra Tiger Reserve, formerly known as Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, has a rich history of conservation and protection of wildlife. Here's a brief overview of its history:

1. Establishment: Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1951 under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. It was initially spread over an area of 77.45 square kilometers (29.9 square miles) and served as a crucial habitat for various wildlife species.

2. Declaration as a Tiger Reserve: Recognizing the importance of the sanctuary for tiger conservation, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a tiger reserve in 1998 as part of the Project Tiger initiative by the Government of India. This designation aimed to provide enhanced protection and support for the tiger population within the sanctuary.

3. Village Relocation Program: The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is India’s first tiger reserve which completed a successful village relocation program by 2002.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Area

Bhadra Tiger Reserve, also known as Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, covers an area of approximately 500.16 square kilometers (193.11 square miles).

The core or critical tiger habitat within Bhadra Tiger Reserve is approximately 500.16 square kilometers (193.11 square miles).

The buffer or peripheral area surrounding the core tiger habitat covers approximately 571.84 square kilometers (220.99 square miles).

The total area of Bhadra Tiger Reserve, combining the core and buffer areas, is 1072.00 square kilometers (414.10 square miles).

Core/Critical/Tiger habitat : 500.16 Sq kms
Buffer/Peripheral area : 571.84 Sq kms
Total : 1072.00 Sq kms

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Hills

Within the reserve, there are several notable hills and ranges that add to the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area. Some of these hills and ranges include:

(1) Lakkavalli Range:

Lakkavalli Range is a prominent hilly region within Bhadra Tiger Reserve. It is known for its green landscapes and serves as an important habitat for wildlife.

(2) Muthodi Ranges:

Muthodi Ranges are another significant hilly area within the tiger reserve. It is characterized by dense forests and provides habitat for various wildlife species.

(3) Mullayanagiri:

Mullayanagiri is the highest peak in Karnataka and is located near Bhadra Tiger Reserve. It is a popular attraction for trekking enthusiasts, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

(4) Gangegiri:

Gangegiri is a hill range located within the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. It is known for its scenic beauty and serves as an important habitat for wildlife, including tigers and other animals.

(5) Hebbegiri:

Hebbegiri is a hill range situated in the tiger reserve. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forested areas and is a favored spot for nature lovers and trekkers.

(5) Baba Budangiri Ranges:

Baba Budangiri Ranges are located near Bhadra Tiger Reserve. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and nature enthusiasts, with its picturesque hills and coffee plantations.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve River

The Bhadra Tiger Reserve is named after the Bhadra River, which flows through the sanctuary. The Bhadra River is a significant water body in the region and adds to the natural beauty and ecological importance of the reserve.

Originating in the Western Ghats, the Bhadra River flows for approximately 178 kilometers (111 miles) before joining the Tungabhadra River near the town of Harihar in Karnataka, India. The river passes through the heart of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve, providing a vital source of water for the diverse flora and fauna within the sanctuary.

The Bhadra River and its tributaries support the surrounding ecosystem, creating a favorable habitat for wildlife, including aquatic species. The river's presence also enhances the overall scenic value and adds to the recreational and aesthetic appeal of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Lake

Bhadra Tiger Reserve features a significant water body known as the Bhadra Reservoir or Bhadra Lake. The reservoir is created by the Bhadra River through the construction of the Bhadra Dam, which is located within the reserve.

The Bhadra Reservoir covers a substantial area within the tiger reserve, serving multiple purposes. It acts as a source of water for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and drinking water supply to nearby regions. Additionally, the reservoir creates a diverse aquatic ecosystem that supports various species of fish and other aquatic life.

The presence of the Bhadra Reservoir enhances the biodiversity of the Bhadra Tiger Reserve, attracting several species of migratory and resident birds. It is a popular spot for birdwatching, particularly during the winter months when numerous bird species visit the reservoir.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Tribe

Bhadra Tiger Reserve is home to several indigenous tribal communities. The reserve area is inhabited by the Soliga tribe, who are recognized as one of the Scheduled Tribes in India. The Soliga people have a long-standing association with the forests of the Western Ghats and have traditionally lived in harmony with nature.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Flora (Bhadra Tiger Reserve Forest)

Bhadra Tiger Reserve is known for its diverse flora, encompassing various forest types and vegetation. Here are some of the prominent plant species found in different forest types within the reserve:

(1) Southern Moist Mixed Deciduous Forests:

This forest type is characterized by a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees. Some notable species include:

Terminalia tomentosa (Mathi): A large deciduous tree with dense foliage.

Lagerstroemia lanccolata (Nandi): A deciduous tree known for its vibrant flowering.

Termmalia paniculata (Kiudal): A deciduous tree with attractive flowers and fruits.

(2) Southern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forests:

These forests have a distinct dry season, and the trees may shed their leaves during certain periods. Key species include:

Pterocarpus marsupium (Honne): A deciduous tree valued for its medicinal properties and durable wood.

Grewia tilifolia (Tadasalu): A small deciduous tree with showy flowers and edible fruits.

Bambusa arundinacea: A species of bamboo, important for its versatile uses.

Dendrocalamus strictus: Another bamboo species found in the reserve.

(3) Sholas:

Sholas are patches of evergreen vegetation that occur at higher elevations. They have a unique ecosystem and include species such as:

Cinnamomum zeylanicum: Known as cinnamon, it is a spice tree with aromatic bark.

Mimusops elengi: An evergreen tree with fragrant flowers.

Strobilanthus species: Known as Neelakurinji, these flowering plants bloom en masse once every 12 years.

(4) Grassland and Old Plantations:

The reserve also includes grasslands and areas with older plantation forests.

Bhadra Tiger Reserve Fauna (Bhadra Tiger Reserve Animals)

Bhadra Tiger Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity and supports a wide variety of wildlife species. The reserve's diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and water bodies, provide a suitable environment for numerous fauna.

Here are some of the notable wildlife species found in Bhadra Tiger Reserve:

Mammals:

Bengal Tiger
Leopard
Leopard Cat
Dhole
Indian Civet
Gaur
Sambar
Barking Deer

Birds:

Grey Junglefowl
Red Spurfowl
Painted Bush Quail
Emerald Dove
Osprey
Southern Green Imperial Pigeon
Great Black Woodpecker
Malabar Parakeet
Hill Myna
Ruby-throated Bulbul
Shama
Malabar Trogon
Malabar Whistling Thrush
Hornbill
Racquet-tailed Drongo

Butterflies:

Yamfly
Baronet
Crimson Rose Butterfly
Southern Birdwing
Tailed Jay
Great Orange Tip
Bamboo Tree Brown
Blue Pansy

Reptiles:

Common Vine Snake
King Cobra
Common Cobra
Russell's Viper
Bamboo Pit Viper
Rat Snake
Olive Keelback
Common Wolf Snake
Common Indian Monitor
Draco or Gliding Lizards
Marsh Crocodiles