Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary UPSC
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is located in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is a dedicated wildlife sanctuary established in 1976 to protect the endangered Indian wolf population (Canis lupus pallipes).
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is an integral part of the larger Betla National Park. It serves as the only wolf sanctuary in India, making it a significant area for wildlife conservation.
The sanctuary is home to various mammal, bird, and reptile species, providing a diverse and thriving ecosystem. The Indian wolf population within the sanctuary has witnessed fluctuations over the years, with efforts leading to positive growth in recent times.
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Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Location
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is located in the Mahuadanr CD Block of Latehar district in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is part of the Betla National Park, which is situated in the Latehar district as well.
The Latehar district is in the western part of the state of Jharkhand and is known for its hilly terrain, dense forests, and abundant wildlife.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
For the nearest airport, the Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, Jharkhand, would be the most convenient option. It is the largest airport in Jharkhand and serves as the main gateway for domestic and limited international flights. The distance from Ranchi to Mahuadanr, Latehar district, where the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is located, is approximately 160 kilometers (about 99 miles) by road.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station, Latehar Railway Station is one of the closest options. However, it is essential to note that Latehar is a small station, and most long-distance trains might not stop there. An alternative option would be to travel to the Ranchi Railway Station, which is a major railway hub in Jharkhand and well-connected to various cities across the country.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary History
Declaration: In 1976, the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary was officially declared as a dedicated sanctuary for the protection of the endangered Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) population. This crucial step aimed to safeguard the wolves from various threats and ensure their survival in the region.
Integration with Betla National Park: Situated within the picturesque landscapes of Betla National Park, the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary seamlessly blends into the diverse ecosystem of Latehar district, Jharkhand. The sanctuary is an integral part of the larger Betla National Park, enhancing its significance in wildlife conservation efforts.
Population Fluctuations: Since its establishment, the Indian wolf population within the sanctuary has experienced fluctuations. In the initial count conducted in 1979, the sanctuary was home to 49 wolves. Over the following decades, the population witnessed a substantial increase, reaching 568 wolves by 2004. However, in 2009, the population took a disheartening dip, with only 58 wolves recorded. Fortunately, concerted conservation efforts resulted in a positive change, and the population bounced back to 120 wolves by the year 2020.
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary's journey is a testament to the importance of preserving and protecting endangered species and highlights the significance of dedicated sanctuaries in promoting wildlife conservation.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Area
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is spread over an approximate area of 63 square kilometers (about 24.3 square miles). This sanctuary provides a vital habitat for the endangered Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) population.
As a dedicated sanctuary within the larger Betla National Park, the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary serves as a significant area for wildlife conservation and the protection of the unique flora and fauna of the region. Its diverse landscapes, including forests and open areas, create a suitable environment for the wolves to thrive and contribute to their successful breeding and population growth.
The vast expanse of the sanctuary allows the Indian wolves to roam freely, ensuring their natural behavior and promoting a healthy ecosystem. Conservation efforts in this area aim to safeguard these majestic creatures and preserve their presence for future generations.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Flora
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora that contributes to the rich biodiversity of the region. The sanctuary's flora consists of various plant species that provide essential habitat and resources for the wildlife, including the endangered Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes).
Some of the prominent flora found in the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary includes:
Bel (Aegle marmelos): Bel, also known as the bael fruit, is a deciduous tree native to India. It bears aromatic and medicinal fruit used in traditional medicine.
Dhaura (Anogeissus pendula): Dhaura is a sturdy and drought-resistant tree commonly found in the Indian subcontinent. It is an important source of timber and contributes to the forest ecosystem.
Khair (Acacia catechu): Khair is a species of acacia tree with a variety of uses, including medicinal and commercial applications.
Salai (Boswellia serrata): Salai is a species of frankincense tree known for its aromatic resin used in incense and traditional medicine.
Piar (Buchanania lanzan): Piar, also known as Chironji, is a tree valued for its seeds, which are used in culinary preparations.
Kendu (Diospyros melanoxylon): Kendu, or Indian ebony, is a tree with dense and durable wood, used for various purposes, including furniture-making.
Karonda (Carissa carandas): Karonda is a shrub or small tree known for its small, tart berries used in pickles and beverages.
Ziziphus (Ziziphus mauritiana): Ziziphus, or ber, is a small deciduous tree with edible fruit commonly consumed fresh or in dried form.
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Fauna (Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary Animals)
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary boasts a rich and diverse fauna, making it a significant area for wildlife conservation. Besides the endangered Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes), the sanctuary is home to various other animal species.
Some of the notable fauna found in the Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary includes:
Mammals:
- Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes)
- Sloth Bear
- Sambar Deer
- Chital Deer
- Nilgai
- Wild Boar
- Indian Porcupine
- Indian Pangolin
- Rhesus Macaque
- Hanuman Langur
- Bengal Fox
- Indian Civet
- Jungle Cat
- Indian Hare
Birds:
- Indian Peafowl
- Indian Roller
- Red Junglefowl
- Common Kingfisher
- Black Drongo
- Asian Paradise Flycatcher
- Indian Pitta
- Indian Vulture
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Jungle Babbler
- Oriental Magpie-Robin
- Indian Treepie
- Black-headed Oriole
- Indian Pond Heron
- Red-wattled Lapwing
Reptiles:
- Green Pit Viper
- Whip Scorpion
- Indian Rock Python
- Indian Cobra
- Common Krait
- Indian Chameleon
- Indian Skink
- Common Indian Monitor
Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary located?
A. The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is located in the Mahuadanr CD Block of Latehar district in the state of Jharkhand, India. It is situated within the Betla National Park, which is known for its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity.
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is the only dedicated wolf sanctuary in India and plays a vital role in the conservation of the endangered Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) population.
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