Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Punjab, India. The sanctuary is home to various flora species and supports a diverse range of wildlife species.
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Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Patiala district of Punjab, India. It falls within the jurisdiction of the Patiala Forest Division (Wildlife) and is situated in the tehsil (sub-district) of Nabha.
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary is the Chandigarh International Airport. It is located approximately 85-90 kilometers away from the sanctuary. From the airport, you can take road transportation to reach the sanctuary.
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary is Nabha Railway Station. It is located within the town of Nabha, which is close to the sanctuary. The sanctuary is about 1 km away from the Nabha Bus Stand, making it easily accessible from the town and the railway station.
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary History
The history of Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary reflects its establishment, conservation efforts, and its role in protecting and preserving the local biodiversity. Here's a brief overview:
Establishment: The Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary traces its origins back to a pivotal moment in history when its establishment was formalized under the provisions of the Fauna of Patiala Act. This crucial step was marked by the issuance of Notification F.No. 150/50 dated 28.02.1952, signifying the sanctuary's inception as a protected area dedicated to the conservation and preservation of its unique wildlife and natural resources.
Eco-Sensitive Zone Declaration: The Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary, in addition to its role in preserving local biodiversity, has garnered further attention due to its designation as an Eco-Sensitive Zone. This significant development was formalized through the Government of India's Notification No. 350(E) Dated 06.02.2017. The declaration pertains to the recognition of an Eco-Sensitive Zone, a concept aimed at promoting conservation in the buffer areas surrounding protected wildlife habitats.
Conservation Efforts: Over the years, the sanctuary has been the focus of conservation efforts aimed at maintaining and enhancing its natural resources. These efforts include habitat management, protection of endangered species, prevention of poaching and illegal activities, and raising awareness among the local communities about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The total area of Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary is approximately 123.43 hectares (about 305 acres). The sanctuary comprises only 3.43% of total protected areas of Patiala Forest Division (3600.21 hac).
This relatively compact yet ecologically significant expanse serves as a crucial habitat for various flora and fauna species, contributing to the conservation and preservation of the region's natural biodiversity. The sanctuary's modest size belies its importance as a protected area that plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting the local ecosystem.
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, contributing to its ecological richness and providing habitat and sustenance for various wildlife species. The forests in the sanctuary falls under the sub- group 5(B) Northern Tropical Dry Mixed deciduous forest type.
The main tree species are:
- Kikkar
- Eucalyptus
- Shisham
- Khair
- Phalahi
- Jamun
- Beri
- Mulberry
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of fauna, showcasing the region's ecological richness and providing habitat for various animal species.
Mammals:
- Blue Bull (Nilgai)
- Jungle Cat
- Jackal
- Rhesus Monkey
- Wild Boar
- Indian Hare
- Small Indian Civet
- Indian Gray Mongoose
- Indian Palm Squirrel
Birds:
- Peafowl
- Black Partridge
- Grey Partridge
- Rose-Ringed Parakeet
- Spotted Owlet
- Indian Roller
- White-Throated Kingfisher
- Indian Robin
Reptiles:
- Common Indian Monitor
- Indian Rock Python
- Common Krait
- Checkered Keelback
- Indian Rat Snake
Bir Mehaswala Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Patiala district of Punjab, India. It falls within the jurisdiction of the Patiala Forest Division (Wildlife) and is situated in the tehsil (sub-district) of Nabha.
Q. What is Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its role in conserving and protecting the region's biodiversity, including a diverse range of flora and fauna. Here are some of the key aspects for which Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary is known:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, housing various plant and animal species that are native to the region. It provides a protected habitat for these species, contributing to their conservation and preservation.
(ii) Wildlife Viewing: Bir Mehas Wildlife Sanctuary offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, and visitors to observe and study a variety of animal species in their natural habitat. Visitors may have the chance to see species such as blue bulls, jungle cats, peafowls, partridges, and more.
(iii) Ecological Balance: The sanctuary plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. By protecting natural habitats, it helps ensure the survival of various species and contributes to overall ecosystem health.
(iv) Eco-Sensitive Zone: The sanctuary has been designated as an Eco-Sensitive Zone, reflecting efforts to strike a balance between conservation and sustainable human activities in its vicinity.
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