Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Bihar, India. It is a significant wildlife reserve in the state and plays a vital role in conserving the region's biodiversity. It covers an extensive area of the Kaimur Hills, which are part of the Vindhya Range.
The sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It provides a natural habitat for various species of plants, animals, and birds, contributing to the ecological balance in the region. The sanctuary is characterized by a mix of deciduous and tropical dry broadleaf forests, with several plant species that are native to the region.
The sanctuary is open to tourists and nature enthusiasts, providing them with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. However, specific rules and regulations may be in place to ensure the protection of the wildlife and their environment.
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Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kaimur district of Bihar, India. It is situated in the southwestern part of Bihar, close to the borders with Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. The sanctuary covers an extensive area in the Kaimur Hills, which are part of the Vindhya Range.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is the Varanasi International Airport (Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is located at a distance of approximately 200-250 kilometers from the sanctuary.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station, the Bhabua Road Railway Station is the closest one to the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary. It is situated in Bhabua, Kaimur district, Bihar, at a distance of around 30-35 kilometers from the sanctuary.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1979, holds a significant place in India's wildlife conservation efforts. This sanctuary was officially designated as a protected area in recognition of the region's unique biodiversity and the need to safeguard its delicate ecosystems.
Since its inception, the sanctuary has been a center of attention for environmentalists, researchers, and policymakers, who work collectively to ensure the preservation of its diverse flora and fauna. The 1979 establishment marked a crucial milestone in the ongoing endeavor to protect India's natural heritage and maintain ecological balance.
Over the years, the sanctuary has grown in importance, attracting visitors from across the country and around the world. It continues to play a pivotal role in raising eco-awareness, conducting scientific research, and conserving the wide array of plant and animal species that call Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary their home.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary has an extended area of approximately 1,504.96 square kilometers (581.07 square miles). This vast expanse is spread across the plateaued landscape of the Kaimur Range, showcasing the sanctuary's rich biodiversity and varied habitats.
With such a significant area, the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary continues to play a crucial role in conserving numerous plant and animal species, contributing to the preservation of India's natural heritage. This expansive protected area provides ample space for various wildlife to thrive and ensures the maintenance of ecological balance within the region.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is situated amidst the picturesque Kaimur Hills, which are part of the Vindhya Range in central India. These hills lend their name to the sanctuary and provide a stunning backdrop to the diverse flora and fauna found in the region.
The Kaimur Hills are known for their rugged terrain, undulating landscapes, and lush greenery. They are characterized by their rocky outcrops, deep valleys, and dense forests, making them an ideal habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species.
The hills are an integral part of the sanctuary's ecosystem, and their unique geological features play a vital role in shaping the biodiversity found within the protected area. The varying altitudes and microclimates within the hills create diverse habitats that support an array of wildlife, including predators, herbivores, and numerous bird species.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with a diverse range of flora, thanks to its varied habitats and unique geological features. The sanctuary's flora comprises a mix of deciduous and tropical dry broadleaf forests, which support an array of plant species native to the region.
Some of the prominent flora found in the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary includes:
Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is one of the dominant tree species found in the sanctuary. These majestic trees provide crucial canopy cover and serve as a vital habitat for various wildlife species.
Saja (Terminalia tomentosa): Saja trees are another significant component of the sanctuary's forested areas. These large, hardwood trees offer food and shelter for wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): The Mahua tree is culturally and ecologically important. Its flowers are used to produce edible oil, and the tree itself provides food and habitat for many animals and birds.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak trees are valued for their high-quality wood and are found in some parts of the sanctuary.
Bamboo (Various species): Bamboo is abundant in the sanctuary and serves as a vital resource for many animals, including elephants, deer, and birds.
Semal (Bombax ceiba): Semal, or silk cotton tree, with its striking red flowers, adds beauty to the landscape and provides a habitat for various birds and insects.
Pakar (Ficus infectoria): Pakar, a type of fig tree, is commonly found in the sanctuary and supports a diverse ecosystem of birds and animals.
Dhak (Butea monosperma): Also known as the Flame of the Forest, the Dhak tree graces the sanctuary with its bright orange-red flowers.
Kusum (Schleichera oleosa): The Kusum tree bears small fruits that are an essential food source for some wildlife species.
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Which animal is found in Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, encompassing various mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. The sanctuary's varied habitats, including the Kaimur Hills and surrounding landscapes, provide a conducive environment for these animals to thrive.
Some of the notable fauna found in the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary includes:
Mammals:
- Bengal Tigers
- Indian Leopards
- Indian Boars
- Indian Pangolins
- Sloth Bears
- Sambar Deers
- Indian Muntjacs
- Four-horned Antelopes
- Chitals
- Nilgais
Birds:
- Peafowl (Indian Peafowl)
- Grey Partridge
- Quail
- Malabar Pied Hornbill
- Swallow
- Nightjar
- Drongo
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Kingfisher
- Bulbul
- Mynas
- Pigeon
- Wood Pigeon
- Blue Jay
- Owl
- Falcon
- Kites
- Eastern Imperial Eagle
- Greater Spotted Eagle
- White-tailed Eagle
- Pallas's Fish Eagle
- Grey-headed Fish Eagle
- Lesser Kestrel
- Vultures
During winter, the sanctuary also witnesses the migration of several bird species from Central Asia, including:
- Lesser White-fronted Goose
- Ferruginous Duck
- Baer's Pochard Duck
- Lesser Adjutant
- Greater Adjutant
- Black-necked Stork
- Asian Openbill Stork
Reptiles:
- Cobra
- Kraits
- Pythons
Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary located?
A. The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kaimur district of Bihar, India. It is situated in the southwestern part of Bihar, near the borders with Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. The sanctuary covers an extended area of approximately 1,504.96 square kilometers (581.07 square miles) and is characterized by its plateaued landscape in the Kaimur Hills, which are part of the Vindhya Range.
Q. What is Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity and diverse range of flora and fauna. Here are some of the key aspects that make the sanctuary renowned:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, Indian boars, Indian pangolins, sloth bears, sambar deers, Indian muntjacs, four-horned antelopes, chitals, nilgais, and various species of reptiles, insects, and butterflies. It provides a unique opportunity to observe and study these animals in their natural habitat.
(ii) Avian Diversity: The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 70 species of resident birds that stay throughout the year. During the winter months, the sanctuary experiences an influx of migratory birds from the Central Asian region, further enriching its avian diversity.
(iii) Natural Beauty: The sanctuary is set in the picturesque Kaimur Hills, which add to its natural beauty and charm. The rugged terrain, deep valleys, and dense forests create a stunning landscape that attracts nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
(iv) Eco-tourism: The Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary offers eco-tourism opportunities, allowing visitors to experience the wonders of nature and observe wildlife in their natural habitat responsibly and sustainably. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
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