Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is situated on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges.
The sanctuary's location on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges and its inclusion of Orai and Bassi dams as part of the sanctuary contribute to the preservation of a variety of ecosystems, including tablelands, gentle slopes, and large lakes.
Over the years, the sanctuary has played a role in protecting various species of animals and birds, including antelopes, leopards, jackals, crocodiles, spotted deer, langurs, wild boars, and numerous bird species. The presence of migratory birds during winters adds to the sanctuary's ecological importance.
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary also serves as an educational and recreational destination for tourists and local visitors interested in wildlife and nature. It provides an opportunity for people to learn about and appreciate the natural world.
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Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Bassi region in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, India. It is situated about 5 kilometers from the Bassi Fort Palace. The sanctuary lies on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
Maharana Pratap Airport (also known as Udaipur Airport) in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It is located at a distance of approximately 120-130 kilometers from the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
Chittorgarh Railway Station in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India. It is situated at a distance of approximately 25-30 kilometers from the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary has a relatively short but interesting history. Here are some key points about the sanctuary's history:
Establishment: The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1988. It was designated as a protected area to conserve the region's diverse flora and fauna, providing a safe habitat for various wildlife species.
Conservation Efforts: The sanctuary was created with the aim of protecting the natural ecosystem of the area and providing a haven for wildlife to thrive without human disturbances. It serves as a refuge for both resident and migratory species, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 138.69 square kilometers (or about 13,869 hectares). This makes it a substantial sanctuary in terms of size, providing a diverse range of habitats for various flora and fauna.
The sanctuary's landscape includes tablelands, gentle slopes, and large lakes, creating a mix of ecosystems that contribute to its biodiversity and ecological importance.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, India. These ranges consist of hills and rugged terrain, contributing to the diverse landscape of the sanctuary. The sanctuary's hills and slopes provide important habitats for various wildlife species, and the varying elevations create different microclimates that support a range of flora and fauna.
The hills within the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary are part of the larger geological and topographical features of the region, and they contribute to the sanctuary's scenic beauty and ecological significance.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Lake
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is known to have lakes and water bodies that are part of its ecosystem, enhancing its appeal as a habitat for diverse wildlife. Some of the lakes and water bodies associated with the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary include:
(1) Orai Dam:
The Orai Dam is one of the water bodies within the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary. It contributes to the availability of water for the sanctuary's flora and fauna and adds to the scenic beauty of the area.
(2) Bassi Dam:
The Bassi Dam is another significant water body within the sanctuary. Like the Orai Dam, it provides water resources that support the sanctuary's wildlife and contribute to its ecological balance.
These lakes and dams are likely to attract a variety of animal and bird species, especially during dry periods when water sources are crucial for survival. They also offer opportunities for visitors to observe wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The presence of these water bodies is an important aspect of the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary's ecosystem and contributes to the sanctuary's role in conservation and habitat preservation.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by a range of flora that thrives in its diverse ecosystems. While the sanctuary's terrain includes hills, tablelands, and water bodies, its vegetation is adapted to these varying conditions.
Here are some of the notable flora found within the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary:
Dhok (Anogeissus pendula): Dhok is a predominant tree species in the sanctuary. It is well-suited to dry and arid conditions, making it a common sight in the region's landscape.
Churel (Ehretia laevis): Churel, also known as the puzzle bush or drunken sailor, is another tree species that can be found in the sanctuary. It adds to the diversity of the vegetation and provides habitat and food for various wildlife.
Butea (Butea monosperma): Butea, also known as the flame of the forest, is known for its bright orange-red flowers. It contributes to the sanctuary's visual appeal and provides food sources for wildlife.
Medicinal Herbs: The sanctuary likely hosts a variety of medicinal herbs and plants that are adapted to the local environment. These plants may have traditional or local uses for medicinal purposes.
Other Vegetation: In addition to the above species, the sanctuary is likely to have a mix of other plant species, including grasses, shrubs, and other trees that have adapted to the region's climate and terrain.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
What animals are in the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammals, birds, and reptiles. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including hills, tablelands, lakes, and water bodies, provide a suitable environment for these species.
Here are some of the notable fauna found within the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- Spotted Deer
- Wild Boar
- Langur
- Jackal
- Fox
- Porcupine
- Panthe
- Antelopes
- Mongoose
- Civet
- Hyena
- Blue Bull (Nilgai)
- Wild Horse
Birds:
- Indian Peafowl
- Painted Stork
- Asian Paradise-flycatcher
- Sparrowhawk
- Rock Eagle Owl
- Lesser Golden-backed Woodpecker
- Black-headed Cuckoo-shrike
- Cranes (migratory)
- Pelicans (migratory)
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- Cobra
- Rat Snake
- Monitor Lizard
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary located?
A. The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Bassi region in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, India. It lies at a distance of about 5 kilometers from the Bassi Fort Palace. The sanctuary is situated on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges, adding to its diverse landscape and ecosystem.
Q. What is Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its role in conserving and protecting various species of wildlife and their habitats. Here are some of the key reasons for its fame:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plant species. This diversity makes it an important area for ecological research and wildlife conservation.
(ii) Wildlife Observation: The sanctuary offers opportunities for visitors to observe a wide range of wildlife species in their natural habitats. This includes elusive animals like leopards and various bird species, making it an attractive destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers.
(iii) Migratory Birds: The presence of migratory birds during winters, including species like cranes and pelicans, adds to the sanctuary's appeal. Birdwatchers and ornithologists are drawn to the sanctuary to witness these seasonal visitors.
(iv) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary's landscape, with its hills, tablelands, lakes, and dams, contributes to its scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings while exploring the diverse terrain.
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