Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary UPSC
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a small yet ecologically significant bird sanctuary located in the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly its avian population, and is considered to be the smallest bird sanctuary under the state forest department.
It is the only bird sanctuary in Kerala which is located in Mangrove forests. The word Mangal means mangroves in Portuguese. The Managalavanam is often regarded as the "green lung of Kochi", considering its role in keeping the city's air pollution under check.
Mangalavanam is a coastal wetland ecosystem that serves as a vital habitat for a variety of resident and migratory birds, as well as other forms of wildlife. The sanctuary is situated between the Arabian Sea and the backwaters of Kochi, making it a unique and valuable ecosystem that supports a diverse range of bird species.
The sanctuary's proximity to urban areas has led to a lot of attention from local conservationists, bird enthusiasts, and environmentalists who have worked to preserve this unique habitat. Mangalavanam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region by acting as a breeding ground, roosting site, and feeding ground for various bird species.
Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy birdwatching, nature walks, and educational activities. The sanctuary is managed by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department, and there are guidelines in place to ensure that the delicate ecosystem is protected from disturbances.
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Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary Location
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is located in the city of Kochi (also known as Cochin) in the state of Kerala, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, near the Kerala High Court building.
Despite being surrounded by urban development, the sanctuary has managed to preserve its ecological significance and provide a habitat for a variety of bird species.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the Cochin International Airport, which is located approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles) away from the sanctuary. This airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is the Ernakulam Junction Railway Station (also known as Ernakulam South Railway Station or Kochi Railway Station), located around 3.5 kilometers (about 2.2 miles) away. This railway station is a major hub in the area and is well-connected to various cities across India through the Indian Railways network.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary History
The history of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is intertwined with the development and conservation efforts of the region. Here's an overview of its history:
(1) Early Utilization as Timber Depot:
The region that now houses the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary had a different role in its past. It was formerly utilized as a timber depot, known as the Ernakulam Timber Depot. This depot played a crucial role in the storage and distribution of timber, primarily facilitated by ferry boats. This phase marked a time when the wetland's ecological significance was not fully recognized, and human activities centered around timber management.
(2) Transition in Administrative Jurisdiction:
(i) Malayattoor Division (Pre-1970 to 1970): Until 1970, the timber depot fell under the administration of the Malayattoor division. This division oversaw the operations and management of the depot, albeit without a focus on the environmental implications of the site.
(ii) Timber Sales Division, Kalady (1970 to 1981): Subsequently, from 1970 to 1981, the management of the depot shifted to the Timber Sales Division located in Kalady. This period continued the trend of utilizing the area for timber-related activities.
(iii) Social Forestry Division, Ernakulam (1981 Onwards): A significant shift occurred in 1981 when the Social Forestry Division, Ernakulam took control of the area. This change in administrative jurisdiction marked the beginning of a transition from resource exploitation to ecological preservation.
(3) Conservation Concerns:
As urbanization continued, there was growing concern about the loss of the wetland ecosystem and its impact on the local biodiversity, including various bird species that relied on the area for nesting, roosting, and feeding.
(4) Initiatives for Protection:
Recognizing the ecological importance of Mangalavanam, local environmentalists, bird enthusiasts, and conservationists began advocating for the protection and preservation of the wetland. Their efforts highlighted the need to maintain a balance between urban development and conservation.
(5) Designation as a Bird Sanctuary:
Due to the persistent efforts of environmental activists, the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department declared Mangalavanam as a bird sanctuary in 2004. This official designation aimed to provide legal protection to the area and its avian inhabitants.
(6) Management Transition and Conservation Efforts
(i) Wildlife Division, Peechi (Post-Declaration to July 2009): Upon its designation as a bird sanctuary, the Wildlife Division based in Peechi assumed the responsibility of managing and overseeing the sanctuary's operations. This phase marked an increased focus on habitat preservation, bird protection, and overall ecological management.
(ii) Nature Study Centre, Kalady (July 2009 Onwards): From July 2009 onward, the management reins of Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary were transferred to the Nature Study Centre located in Kalady. This transition represented a collaborative effort toward conservation, education, and raising awareness about the sanctuary's ecological importance.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary Area
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary covers a relatively small area of about 2.74 hectares (approximately 6.77 acres or 0.0274 square kilometers).
Despite its modest size, the sanctuary holds significant ecological value due to its location within an urban environment and its role in providing a habitat for various bird species, particularly during migratory seasons.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary River
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is situated in an area that is surrounded by the backwaters of Kochi and the Arabian Sea. However, it is not directly located on a river. The sanctuary's water sources are primarily composed of interconnected water bodies, tidal channels, and wetland areas that are influenced by the nearby backwaters and the sea.
These water features provide a crucial habitat for various bird species and contribute to the sanctuary's rich biodiversity. While the sanctuary itself is not defined by a river, its location near these water bodies is essential for its ecological significance.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary Flora
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora that is adapted to its unique wetland environment. The vegetation within the sanctuary plays a crucial role in providing habitat, food, and shelter for various bird species and other wildlife.
Some of the notable types of flora found in the sanctuary include:
(1) Mangrove Species:
Mangroves are a prominent feature of the sanctuary due to its proximity to the backwaters and the sea. Mangrove species like Rhizophora, Avicennia, and Sonneratia are adapted to brackish water and tidal conditions. They contribute to stabilizing the coastline and providing important breeding and nesting sites for birds.
(2) Aquatic Plants:
Various aquatic plants thrive in the wetland areas of the sanctuary. These include submerged plants like Vallisneria and Hydrilla, as well as floating plants like water lilies (Nymphaea spp.).
(3) Wetland Vegetation:
The sanctuary also supports a variety of wetland vegetation such as reeds, sedges, and grasses. These plants are well-suited to the waterlogged conditions and play a role in maintaining the overall wetland ecosystem.
(4) Mudflats and Algae:
The mudflats and tidal areas of the sanctuary host algae, which are essential as a food source for many aquatic organisms and can attract birds that feed on them.
(5) Coastal Trees:
Along the periphery of the sanctuary, you might find coastal trees like coconut palms (Cocos nucifera) and other salt-tolerant species that can withstand the coastal environment.
(6) Meadow Plants:
In certain areas, meadow-like vegetation can be found, consisting of grasses and low-growing plants that add to the sanctuary's biodiversity.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary Animals)
The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse avian population, but it also supports a range of other wildlife species that thrive within its wetland ecosystem. Here's an overview of the fauna found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Indian Flying Fox
- Painted Bat
- Three-striped Palm Squirrel
- Eurasian Otter
Birds:
- Common Redshank
- Common Greenshank
- Brahminy Kite
- White-breasted Waterhen
- Marsh Sandpiper
Reptiles:
While less prominent than the avian population, Mangalavanam is also home to some reptiles, such as different species of snakes, lizards, and turtles that are adapted to the wetland habitat.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary?/Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary in which district?
A. The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is located in the city of Kochi (also known as Cochin) in the Ernakulam district of the Indian state of Kerala. It is situated in the heart of the city and is known for its unique urban wetland ecosystem that provides habitat for various bird species and other forms of wildlife.
Q. When was Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary established?
A. The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary was officially established as a bird sanctuary on August 31, 2004. This designation was made by the Kerala Forest and Wildlife Department to recognize and protect the ecological significance of the area for avian species and other wildlife. Since its establishment, the sanctuary has played a vital role in conserving the unique wetland habitat within the urban environment of Kochi, Kerala, India.
Q. What is Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary famous for?
A. The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is famous for being a unique urban oasis that provides a haven for a diverse range of bird species within the bustling city of Kochi, Kerala, India. It is particularly known for the following reasons:
(i) Avian Diversity: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory. It serves as an important stopover for migratory birds during their journeys, attracting bird enthusiasts and researchers.
(ii) Urban Conservation: The sanctuary stands out for its conservation efforts within an urban setting. It highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats even in densely populated areas.
(iii) Mangrove Ecosystem: Mangalavanam is situated in a coastal area, and its mangrove ecosystem is crucial for stabilizing shorelines, supporting marine life, and offering a nesting habitat for various bird species.
(iv) Biodiversity Hotspot: Beyond birds, Mangalavanam supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.
(v) Urban Biodiversity: It showcases the potential of conserving biodiversity in urban environments, demonstrating how green spaces can coexist with human settlements.
(vi) Photography and Recreation: The sanctuary's scenic beauty and diverse birdlife attract photographers and nature enthusiasts. It offers a tranquil retreat for city residents and tourists alike.
(vii) Environmental Balance: By providing a habitat for various species, the sanctuary helps maintain ecological balance and contributes to the health of the local environment.
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