Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular nature reserve located in the state of Goa, India. It is known for its rich biodiversity and lush greenery. It is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa covering an area of approximately 8 square kilometers.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary was established with the primary aim of conserving and protecting the region's unique flora and fauna. It provides a safe habitat for a variety of animal species, including deer, wild boars, Indian bison (gaurs), monkeys, various bird species, and more. The sanctuary is also home to a small zoo where visitors can observe animals such as leopards, snakes, and other reptiles.
Apart from its animal inhabitants, Bondla Sanctuary is also known for its diverse plant life, including a range of trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants. The sanctuary features walking trails and viewpoints that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. It's a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and tourists looking to experience a slice of Goa's natural charm.
Visitors to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary can engage in activities such as nature walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene environment. The sanctuary also has facilities for educational purposes, making it a great place for school trips and learning about the region's ecology.
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Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Ponda Taluka of Goa, India. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state. The sanctuary is approximately 38 kilometers away from the capital city of Panaji.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport. It's the main airport in Goa and is located approximately 52 kilometers away from the sanctuary. Travelers arriving at Dabolim Airport can then use various modes of transportation, such as taxis or buses, to reach Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Madgaon Railway Station (also known as Margao Railway Station). It's a major railway station in Goa and is located about 48 kilometers away from the sanctuary. Like with the airport, you can use local transportation options from the railway station to reach Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary History
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary has an interesting history that dates back to the colonial era. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Colonial Era: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary's history can be traced back to the colonial period when Goa was under Portuguese rule. During this time, the region was used for various purposes, including hunting grounds for the colonial elites.
After Independence: After India's liberation from colonial rule in 1947, Goa was integrated into the Indian union in 1961. In the years following, efforts were made to protect and preserve the state's natural resources and wildlife.
Establishment: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in 1969 with the aim of conserving the region's biodiversity and providing a safe habitat for various animal and plant species.
Conservation Efforts: Over the years, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary has been developed and managed by the Forest Department of the Government of Goa. The authorities have worked on creating suitable habitats for different species, planting native vegetation, and ensuring the overall well-being of the ecosystem.
Zoo and Rehabilitation Center: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary features a small zoo that primarily houses rescued and rehabilitated animals. This serves as an educational tool for visitors and helps promote awareness about wildlife conservation.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 8 square kilometers (around 3.1 square miles). This relatively compact size makes it the smaller wildlife sanctuaries in Goa. Despite its size, the sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and varied ecosystems, ranging from moist deciduous forests to grasslands.
Within this area, the sanctuary offers various attractions, including walking trails, viewpoints, a zoo, and opportunities to observe and appreciate the local flora and fauna. The relatively small size of Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary makes it accessible and manageable for visitors who want to explore its natural beauty and engage in activities like birdwatching and nature walks.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary River
Rangado river flows on the east and Mandovi river is on the north of the forest.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
Which flora is found in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora (Moist deciduous forest to patches of evergreen forest) due to its location within the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. The sanctuary's varied elevations, soil types, and climatic conditions contribute to its rich plant diversity.
Here are some of the prominent flora you can find within Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary:
(1) Terminalia crenulata:
Also known as the Marathi name "Aini," Terminalia crenulata is a tree species belonging to the Combretaceae family. It is native to the Western Ghats and other parts of India. The leaves are used in traditional medicine, and the wood is valued for its quality.
(2) Lagerstroemia spp.:
Lagerstroemia, commonly known as crepe myrtle or crape myrtle, is a genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the Lythraceae family. They are known for their attractive flowers and often have smooth, exfoliating bark.
(3) Mimusops spp.:
Mimusops is a genus of trees and shrubs in the Sapotaceae family. Some species produce edible fruits, and the wood of certain species is used for various purposes.
(4) Saraca indica:
Commonly known as the Ashoka tree, Saraca indica is revered in Indian culture for its beautiful and fragrant orange-red flowers. It has cultural and religious significance and is often planted in temple compounds.
(5) Bambusa arundinacea:
Also known as Indian bamboo, Bambusa arundinacea is a species of bamboo native to the Indian subcontinent. It's a tall and sturdy bamboo species that has a range of traditional uses.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of animal species, thanks to its varied ecosystems and location within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. Here are some of the notable fauna you might encounter within the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Gaur
- Sambar
- Giant Squirrel
Birds:
Which birds are found in Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?
- Grey Hornbill
- Ruby-throated Bulbul
- Peafowl
Reptiles:
- Cobra
- Russell’s Viper
- Python
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary situated?
A. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the state of Goa, India. It is located in the northeastern part of Goa. The sanctuary is nestled within the hilly terrain of the Western Ghats, contributing to its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity.
Q. When was Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary established?
A. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in the year 1969. The sanctuary was set up with the aim of conserving the region's biodiversity and providing a safe habitat for various animal and plant species. Over the years, it has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of the Western Ghats in Goa, India.
Q. Which one is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa?
A. Bondla wildlife sanctuary is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa. It covers an area of approximately 8 square kilometers (around 3.1 square miles).
Q. How to reach Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northeastern part of Goa, India. To reach the sanctuary, you can follow these general directions:
(1) By Air:
The nearest airport to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is Dabolim Airport, also known as Goa International Airport. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation options to reach the sanctuary, which is approximately 52 kilometers away.
(2) By Train:
The nearest major railway station is Madgaon Railway Station (also known as Margao Railway Station). From there, you can take a taxi or use local transportation to travel to Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which is approximately 48 kilometers away.
(3) By Road:
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road. You can hire a taxi, rent a car, or use local buses to reach the sanctuary from various parts of Goa. The sanctuary is located around 38 kilometers from the state capital, Panaji.
Q. What is Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa, India, is famous for several reasons:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, offering a habitat for various animal and plant species native to the Western Ghats region. It provides a chance to observe and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the area.
(ii) Eco-Tourism: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for eco-tourism. Visitors can explore walking trails, engage in nature walks, and experience the beauty of the Western Ghats in a natural and serene setting.
(iii) Birdwatching: The sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. It hosts a variety of bird species, both resident and migratory, making it a great place to spot and photograph birds.
(iv) Zoo and Rescue Center: The sanctuary features a small zoo that primarily houses rescued and rehabilitated animals. This serves as an educational tool to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and provides visitors with a chance to see some of the region's wildlife up close.
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