Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Maharashtra, India. The sanctuary is named after the Katepurna River, which flows through its central region.
The sanctuary's landscape is characterized by undulating terrain, offering a contrast between plateaus and plains. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the region's biodiversity and ecological balance. The sanctuary's notable features include the Katepurna Reservoir, which provides a perennial water source and habitat for aquatic life.
The sanctuary features southern tropical dry deciduous forest vegetation, with over 115 species of plants. These include species like Bahada, Dhawada, Moha, Tendu, Khair, Salai, Teak, Sandalwood, and more.
The sanctuary hosts a variety of wildlife, including Four-horned Antelope, Barking Deer, Blackbuck, Leopard, Wolf, Wild Boar, Striped Hyena, Black-naped Hare, Bluebull, Jungle Cat, and numerous bird and reptile species.
Visitors to the Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary can experience the beauty of nature, observe wildlife in their natural habitat, and appreciate the importance of conservation efforts.
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Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Akola District of Maharashtra, India. It is situated in the central part of the state.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is Nagpur Airport (Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport), which is located in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. The airport is approximately 225 kilometers away from the sanctuary.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is Akola Railway Station, located in Akola, Maharashtra, India. The railway station is approximately 37 kilometers away from the sanctuary.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary History
Establishment: The sanctuary was officially notified on 5th February 1988, with the intention of preserving the natural diversity of the area. Over the years, it has attracted nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists who seek to explore its unique ecosystems and observe its resident and migratory wildlife.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 73.63 square kilometers. This area is dedicated to the conservation of diverse plant and animal species, offering a protected environment for their survival and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
The sanctuary's landscape, which includes forests, grasslands, and water bodies, supports a variety of wildlife and provides a habitat for both resident and migratory species.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is named after the Katepurna River, which flows south to Northward almost through the central part of the Sanctuary. The river serves as a central feature of the sanctuary's landscape and ecosystem.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, contributing to its ecological richness and providing habitats for various wildlife species. Here are some of the flora species that can be found in the sanctuary:
- Bahada
- Dhawada
- Moha
- Tendu
- Khair
- Salai
- Aola
- Tamarind
- Grape
- Iron
- Teak
- Sandalwood
- Palasa
- Amla
- Custard apple
- Bell
- Guggul
- Subabul
- Neem
- Giripuspa
- Shirsat
- Bor
These species belong to the southern tropical dry deciduous forest ecosystem, which is characteristic of the sanctuary's vegetation. The presence of such a diverse array of plant species supports the food chain and habitats for a variety of animals and birds within the sanctuary.
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Here is a list of some of the animal species that can be found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- Wolf
- Striped Hyaena
- Jungle Cat
- Four-horned Antelope
- Barking Deer
- Blackbuck
- Wild Boar
- Black-naped Hare
- Bluebull
Birds:
- Orange-Headed Ground Thrush
- Indian Pitta
- Crested Tree Swift
- Stone Curlew
- Crested Honey Buzzard
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Bronze-Winged Jacana
- Lesser Golden-Backed Woodpecker
- Black-naped Blue Flycatcher
- Indian Peafowl
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- Indian Monitor
- Indian Cobra
- Russell’s Viper
Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Akola District of Maharashtra, India. It is situated in the central part of the state.
Q. What is the Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, offering a unique and vibrant ecosystem. Some of the notable features and reasons for its fame include:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a variety of plant species, including Bahada, Dhawada, Tendu, Khair, Salai, Teak, Sandalwood, and more. It also hosts a range of animal species, such as Four-horned Antelope, Barking Deer, Blackbuck, Leopard, Wolf, Wild Boar, Striped Hyena, and a variety of birds and reptiles.
(ii) Four-Horned Antelope: The sanctuary is renowned for being a habitat for the Four-horned Antelope, a unique and distinctive species known for its four-pronged horns. Observing these antelopes in their natural habitat is a significant attraction for visitors.
(iii) Avian Diversity: The sanctuary attracts a variety of bird species, including Indian Pitta, Peafowl, Crested Honey Buzzard, Paradise Flycatcher, and others. Birdwatchers and enthusiasts can enjoy observing both resident and migratory bird species.
(iv) Katepurna River and Reservoir: The sanctuary's name is derived from the Katepurna River, which flows through the central part of the sanctuary. The Katepurna Reservoir within the sanctuary provides a perennial water source and habitat for aquatic life, including diverse fish species.
(v) Landscape: The undulating landscape of the sanctuary, with its plateaus and plains, offers picturesque and serene surroundings that attract nature lovers and photographers.
(vi) Tourism and Eco-Tourism: The sanctuary offers opportunities for ecotourism, attracting visitors interested in experiencing nature and wildlife in a relatively undisturbed environment.
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