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Saturday, August 5, 2023

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Jharkhand, India. The sanctuary is named after the prominent Dalma Hill, which is a significant geographical feature in the region.


Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as a habitat for various species of flora and fauna. It is famous for significant population of Indian Elephants. Some of the other notable wildlife found in the sanctuary includes barking deer, sloth bears, leopards, wild boars, and several species of birds.


The sanctuary offers opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to engage in activities like nature walks, birdwatching, and jungle safaris to observe the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of the area.


Table of Contents

  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Location
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary History
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Area
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary River
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
    • Mammals
    • Birds
    • Reptile
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Elephant
  • Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions


Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Jharkhand, near the city of Jamshedpur. Jamshedpur is an industrial city in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. It located 10 km from the city of Jamshedpur and easily accessible from there. 


The sanctuary is situated on the Dalma Hill, from which it gets its name. 




How to reach Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?

To reach Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, you can follow these general directions:


Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Birsa Munda Airport is the primary airport serving the state and is located approximately 140 kilometers (about 87 miles) from the sanctuary. From the airport, one can take a taxi or other transportation to reach Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary.


However, there is also another airport closer to the sanctuary, which is the Sonari Airport, also known as Jamshedpur Airport. Sonari Airport is a domestic airport serving Jamshedpur and the surrounding areas.


Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, the one closest to Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is Tatanagar Junction, also known as Jamshedpur Tatanagar. It is a major railway station located in Jamshedpur city, Jharkhand. 


Tatanagar Junction is well-connected to various cities and towns across India, making it convenient for travelers to reach the sanctuary. From Tatanagar Junction, one can hire a taxi or take other local transport options to reach Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, which is around 20-25 kilometers away.


By Road:

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by using private vehicles or public transportation. Jamshedpur is the nearest major city, and the sanctuary is approximately 10-15 kilometers away from the city center. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Jamshedpur to reach the sanctuary.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary History

Historical Background: Before its designation as a wildlife sanctuary, the Dalma Hill and its surroundings were under the administration of the Tata Iron and Steel Company (TISCO), based in Jamshedpur. Recognizing the ecological importance of the area, TISCO took early steps to protect the wildlife and forests on the hill. Over time, it became evident that formal conservation efforts were necessary to safeguard the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.


Establishment as a Wildlife Sanctuary: In response to the growing need for conservation, the Jharkhand Forest Department and other environmental organizations worked together to secure official wildlife sanctuary status for Dalma. In 1975, the Government of Jharkhand declared the region as the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. This significant step marked the beginning of dedicated conservation efforts in the area.


Conservation and Management: Since its establishment, the sanctuary has been managed and protected by the state's forest department. Conservation efforts focus on preserving the natural resources, promoting sustainable ecotourism, and maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem. The authorities have implemented measures to ensure the welfare of the wildlife and the long-term health of the sanctuary.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 195 square kilometers (about 75 square miles). This expansive protected area is situated on the Dalma Hill near Jamshedpur in the state of Jharkhand, India. 


The sanctuary's vast expanse is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an essential conservation site and a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking to explore the region's natural beauty and wildlife.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the Dalma Hill, after which the sanctuary is named. The sanctuary is nestled in the Dalma range, which is a part of the Eastern Ghats mountain system. The Dalma Hill is the prominent geographical feature in the region, and it contributes significantly to the area's ecological importance and biodiversity.


The hills of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary are covered with dense forests, making it an ideal habitat for various species of flora and fauna. The forested terrain provides a natural shelter for wildlife, including elephants, leopards, barking deer, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.


The hilly landscape of the sanctuary, combined with its rich wildlife, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers seeking to explore and experience the beauty of the Eastern Ghats. Visitors can take nature walks and trekking trails to immerse themselves in the serene environment and witness the fascinating wildlife thriving in the hills of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary River

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the catchment area of the Subarnarekha River. The Subarnarekha River, a significant river in the region, flows in close proximity to the sanctuary.


The catchment area of a river refers to the region where rainwater or other sources of water flow into a river and contribute to its water flow. The presence of the Subarnarekha River in the vicinity of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary adds to the ecological importance of the area, providing water resources and supporting diverse flora and fauna in and around the sanctuary.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

What is the flora of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its diverse flora, which encompasses a range of vegetation types due to the variation in altitude and climatic conditions within the sanctuary. It consists mainly of dry mixed deciduous forests with some dry peninsular sals. 


The sanctuary's flora is an essential component of its ecosystem and provides habitat and sustenance for the diverse wildlife found in the area. Here are some of the notable plant species that can be found in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary:


  • Sal Trees
  • Dhaura
  • Karam
  • Kendu 
  • Bamboo
  • Mahua
  • Semal
  • Palash
  • Salai
  • Kusum
  • Jamun
  • Amla




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, making it a significant habitat for various animal species. The sanctuary's varied landscape, including plateaus, hillocks, open fields, and valleys, provides an ideal environment for a wide array of wildlife. 


Here are some of the notable fauna species found in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary:


Mammals:

  • Indian Elephant
  • Leopard
  • Barking Deer
  • Sloth Bear
  • Indian Wild Boar
  • Chital (Spotted Deer)
  • Sambar Deer
  • Indian Gaur (Indian Bison)
  • Indian Pangolin
  • Indian Porcupine
  • Indian Flying Fox
  • Indian Giant Squirrel
  • Indian Hare
  • Rhesus Macaque


Birds:

  • Indian Peafowl
  • Indian Roller
  • Indian Pitta
  • Malabar Pied Hornbill
  • Crested Serpent Eagle
  • Oriental Honey Buzzard
  • Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
  • White-rumped Shama
  • Black Drongo
  • Indian Paradise Flycatcher
  • Indian Robin
  • Greater Coucal
  • Grey-headed Fish Eagle
  • Changeable Hawk-Eagle


Reptiles:

  • Indian Rock Python
  • King Cobra
  • Common Krait
  • Russell's Viper
  • Indian Monitor Lizard
  • Common Indian Skink
  • Common Indian Chameleon
  • Indian Garden Lizard




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary Elephant

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its population of Indian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus). These majestic creatures are one of the iconic and charismatic species found in the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for elephants with its diverse vegetation, water sources, and ample space for these large animals to roam.


Indian elephants are the largest land mammals in Asia and play a crucial role in shaping the forest ecosystems. They are herbivores and primarily feed on a variety of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, fruits, and bark. The availability of these food sources in the sanctuary's forests supports the elephant population.


In Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, the elephants are free to move across the undulating landscape, which includes plateaus, hillocks, open fields, and deep valleys. These features offer varied terrain and ample resources for the elephants to meet their dietary and habitat needs.


It is important to note that Indian elephants are a vulnerable species and face various threats in the wild, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. The sanctuary's protected status and conservation efforts play a significant role in ensuring the well-being and conservation of the elephant population within its boundaries.




Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?/Which state is Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary in?

A. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is situated near the city of Jamshedpur in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. The sanctuary is spread over an area of approximately 195 square kilometers and is situated on the picturesque Dalma Hill, which is part of the Eastern Ghats mountain range.



Q. What is the altitude of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. The altitude of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary varies within its undulating landscape, which includes plateaus, high hillocks, open fields, and deep valleys. The sanctuary is situated on the Dalma Hill, which is part of the Eastern Ghats mountain range.


The general altitude of the sanctuary ranges from around 300 meters (984 feet) to 1,026 meters (3,366 feet) above sea level. The highest points in the sanctuary can be found on the hilltops, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.



Q. How many elephants are in the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. There were approximately 156 elephants in Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. Please note that population numbers can fluctuate over time due to various factors,.



Q. What is Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?

A. Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:


(i) Indian Elephants: One of the primary attractions of Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is its population of Indian elephants. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for these majestic creatures, and visitors have the opportunity to observe them in their natural surroundings.


(ii) Diverse Flora and Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. From elephants, leopards, and barking deer to various bird species and reptiles, the sanctuary offers a rich biodiversity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.


(iii) Scenic Beauty: Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the Dalma Hill, part of the Eastern Ghats, providing picturesque landscapes with plateaus, hillocks, open fields, and deep valleys. The scenic beauty of the sanctuary attracts visitors seeking to experience the natural wonders of the region.


(iv) Trekking and Nature Walks: The sanctuary offers opportunities for trekking and nature walks, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness and immerse themselves in the serene environment.

Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary

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