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Friday, August 25, 2023

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern part of India, primarily in the state of Karnataka. It is one of the protected areas established to conserve and protect the rich biodiversity of the region. The sanctuary derives its name from the Cauvery River, which flows through the area.


The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary was established primarily to conserve and protect the wildlife and natural ecosystems of the region. It provides a safe habitat for several endangered and vulnerable species.


The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It encompasses a range of habitats including dry deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, and riverine ecosystems. The area supports a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild boars, deer, various species of birds, reptiles, and more.


The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is not only significant for its biodiversity but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. It helps in regulating the water flow of the Cauvery River, which is essential for agricultural and other human activities downstream.


Table of Contents

  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Location
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary History
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Area
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary River
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
    • Mammals
    • Birds
    • Reptile
  • Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions


Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Karnataka. It consists of reserve forests in Chamarajnagar, Ramanagar and Mandya Districts of Karnataka State. It is situated about 100 kms south of Bangalore,


The sanctuary is situated along the course of the Cauvery River, which flows through this region. It's relatively close to the city of Mysore, making it accessible to visitors interested in exploring its diverse flora and fauna.


Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is the Kempegowda International Airport (IATA code: BLR) in Bangalore, Karnataka. It's the major international airport in the region and is well-connected to various cities in India and around the world.


Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is likely the Mysore Junction Railway Station (MYS), which is well-connected to several major cities and towns in India.




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary has a history rooted in the conservation efforts of protecting the region's biodiversity and natural resources. Here's a brief overview of its history:


Establishment: In 1987, he sanctuary was established to protect the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of the Cauvery River basin. It was notified as a wildlife sanctuary to conserve the rich flora and fauna found in the area.


Conservation Focus: The primary focus of the sanctuary's establishment was to conserve the habitats along the Cauvery River and its tributaries, which are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the region.




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary covers an approximate area of about 1027.53 square kilometers (396 square miles).




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the Cauvery River, which flows through the region. The river is one of the major rivers in southern India and plays a significant role in the ecology, economy, and livelihoods of the area. 


Here's some information about the Cauvery River's connection to the sanctuary:


1. Riverine Ecosystem: The Cauvery River and its tributaries create riverine ecosystems within the sanctuary. These ecosystems are characterized by the presence of water bodies, wetlands, and vegetation adapted to water-rich environments.


2. Biodiversity: The river and its associated habitats provide water sources for wildlife and diverse plant species. Many animals depend on the river for drinking water, and the riverine vegetation supports a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic species.


3. Habitat Diversity: The presence of the Cauvery River contributes to the sanctuary's overall habitat diversity. The riverbank areas can support different types of vegetation and attract a range of animal species, both aquatic and terrestrial.


4. Water Source: The river also serves as a source of water for the local ecosystems, including the flora and fauna of the sanctuary, which rely on it for their survival.


5. Human Dependence: Beyond its ecological importance, the Cauvery River has cultural and economic significance for local communities. It's used for irrigation, agriculture, and other human activities downstream.




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, which contributes to its rich biodiversity and ecosystem health. The sanctuary's flora includes various types of vegetation adapted to the different habitats within its boundaries. The sanctuary mainly consists of dry deciduous forest, southern tropical dry thorn and riverine forests.


Here are some examples of the types of flora you might find in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary:


(1) Dry Deciduous Forest Species:

The sanctuary is characterized by dry deciduous forests, which shed their leaves during the dry season. Common tree species in these forests might include teak, sandalwood, rosewood, Indian kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), and various species of acacia.


(2) Riverine Vegetation:

Along the banks of the Cauvery River and its tributaries, you'll find riverine vegetation. This includes species that thrive in moist conditions, such as bamboo, fig trees, and various types of grasses.


(3) Grasslands:

The sanctuary contains grassland areas that support a variety of grass species, providing habitat for animals like deer and other herbivores.


(4) Aquatic Plants:

Wetlands and water bodies within the sanctuary host aquatic plants like water lilies, lotuses, and various submerged plants that are adapted to life in water.

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(5) Endemic and Rare Species:

The sanctuary is home to species that are endemic to the region or considered rare. These species can include plants with specific adaptations to the local environment.




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and more. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including dry deciduous forests, riverine ecosystems, grasslands, and hills, provide a suitable environment for a wide array of wildlife. 


Here are some examples of the fauna you might encounter in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary:


Mammals:

  • Tiger
  • Elephant
  • Leopard
  • Dhole
  • Spotted Deer
  • Barking Deer
  • Sambar
  • Four-horned Antelope
  • Wild Boar
  • Black-naped Hare
  • Chevrotain
  • Common Langur
  • Bonnet Macaque
  • Ratel
  • Malabar Giant Squirrel
  • Grizzled Giant Squirrel
  • Smooth-coated Otter


Birds:

  • Indian Courser
  • Malabar Parakeet
  • Large-Billed Leaf Warbler
  • Indian Blue Robbin


Reptiles:

  • Marsh Crocodile
  • Monitor Lizard
  • Various Snake Species




Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary located?/In which district is Kaveri wildlife sanctuary located?/Which state has notified Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern part of India, primarily in the state of Karnataka. It spans across the districts of Chamarajanagar, Ramanagar and Mandya. The sanctuary is situated along the course of the Cauvery River, which flows through the region. It's relatively close to the city of Mysore, making it accessible to visitors interested in exploring its diverse flora and fauna.



Q. When was Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary established?

A. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary was established on January 14, 1987. It was notified as a wildlife sanctuary with the aim of conserving and protecting the rich biodiversity and natural habitats present in the region. The sanctuary was created to provide a safe haven for various wildlife species and to maintain the ecological balance of the area, particularly in relation to the Cauvery River and its associated ecosystems.



Q. Why is Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary famous?

A. The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:


(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including iconic species like elephants, tigers, and various bird species. This rich biodiversity attracts nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and researchers.


(ii) Cauvery River: The sanctuary is named after the Cauvery River, which flows through the region. The river and its associated ecosystems are of great ecological significance, and the sanctuary plays a role in protecting these habitats.


(iii) Tiger Conservation: The sanctuary is known for its efforts in tiger conservation. It provides a habitat for tigers and supports conservation initiatives to protect this endangered species.


(iv) Scenic Landscapes: The varied landscapes within the sanctuary, including hills, dry deciduous forests, and riverine areas, create picturesque views and offer opportunities for eco-tourism, trekking, and nature exploration.


(v) Ecological Importance: The sanctuary's role in conserving and maintaining the biodiversity of the region makes it ecologically important. It contributes to the health of the Cauvery River ecosystem and the surrounding areas.


(vi) Cultural Significance: The Cauvery River holds cultural and historical significance in the region, and the sanctuary's efforts contribute to the preservation of this natural heritage.

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

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