Ratapani Tiger Reserve UPSC

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the popular tiger reserves in the state. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including a significant population of tigers.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Hills
River/Lake
Flora
Fauna

Mammals
Birds
Reptiles

UPSC Questions

Ratapani Tiger Reserve Location

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) away from Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. The reserve is surrounded by the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is strategically located and serves as an important corridor between the eastern and western parts of Madhya Pradesh. It facilitates movement of wildlife, including tigers, between the two regions, ensuring genetic diversity and maintaining healthy populations.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Ratapani Tiger Reserve is Raja Bhoj Airport, also known as Bhopal Airport. It is located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India. The airport is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from Ratapani Tiger Reserve.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Ratapani Tiger Reserve is Habibganj Railway Station, which is located in Bhopal. It is a major railway station and is well-connected to various cities in India. From Habibganj Railway Station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ratapani Tiger Reserve, which is around 55 kilometers (34 miles) away.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve History

Ratapani Tiger Reserve has a significant history in terms of wildlife conservation and protection. Here are some key milestones:

1. Wildlife Sanctuary: Ratapani was initially declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1976.

2. Tiger Reserve: In 2013, Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as a tiger reserve. This upgrade in status aimed to focus on the conservation and protection of the tiger population in the area. It is the 7th tiger reserve of Madhya Pradesh.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve Area

Ratapani Tiger Reserve covers an area of approximately 824 square kilometers (318 square miles).

Ratapani Tiger Reserve Hills

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is situated in an area that is characterized by undulating terrain and hilly landscapes. The reserve is surrounded by the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, which contribute to the picturesque beauty of the region.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve River/Lake

Dahod Dam, Ratapani Dam (Barrusot lake) and Barna Dam are large water bodies inside the Ratapani Tiger Reserve.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve Flora

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is characterized by diverse flora, with a variety of plant species found within its boundaries. The reserve's vegetation comprises both dry deciduous forests and moist deciduous forests, which contribute to the rich biodiversity of the region.

Here are some notable plant species found in Ratapani Tiger Reserve:

Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is one of the dominant tree species in the reserve. It is known for its durable wood and is highly valued for its timber. About 55% of the Ratapani Tiger Reserve area is covered by teak.

Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal trees are widespread in Ratapani Tiger Reserve. They are an important component of the forest ecosystem and provide habitat and food for various animal species.

Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Bamboo groves can be found in different parts of the reserve. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant and plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil, providing shelter, and serving as a food source for wildlife.

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua trees are found in the forests of Ratapani Tiger Reserve. The tree is known for its edible flowers and fruits, which are utilized by both humans and wildlife.

Terminalia (Terminalia spp.): Several species of Terminalia, such as Terminalia arjuna and Terminalia belerica, are present in the reserve. These trees have medicinal properties and are used in traditional herbal remedies.

Indian Ghost Tree (Kailashpati, Sterculia urens): This unique tree species with white bark and beautiful flowers is also found in Ratapani Tiger Reserve.

Ratapani Tiger Reserve Fauna (Ratapani Tiger Reserve Animals)

Ratapani Tiger Reserve is renowned for its diverse fauna, including a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. The reserve's rich biodiversity supports a range of iconic and endangered species.

Here are some notable examples of fauna found in the reserve:

Mammals:

Tiger
Leopard
Sloth Bear
Dhole
Hyena
Jackal
Fox
Chital
Sambar
Nilgai
Four-horned Antelope
Langur
Rhesus Macaque
Wild Boar
Squirrels
Mongooses

Birds:

Oriental White-backed Vulture
Long-billed Vulture
Red-headed Vulture
Sarus Crane
Painted Stork
Black-necked Stork
White-necked Stork

Reptiles:

Lizards
Chameleon
Cobra
Python
Viper
Krait