Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the state of Odisha, India, is a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and its role in conserving various wildlife species, including the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus).
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary features diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and moist peninsular Sal forests. The sanctuary is bisected by the Mahanadi River, which flows through a gorge in the Eastern Ghats.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is not only significant for its conservation efforts but also for its natural beauty and the opportunity it provides for people to connect with the region's diverse flora and fauna.
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Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nayagarh district of the Indian state of Odisha. It is situated in the Eastern Ghats region of Odisha, adjacent to the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhubaneswar Airport (Biju Patnaik International Airport), which is located approximately 160 kilometers away. Travelers can reach the sanctuary by air and then proceed by road.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is Khurda Road Railway Station. Khurda Road is a major railway junction in Odisha and serves as a transportation hub for the region. From Khurda Road Railway Station, you can continue your journey to the sanctuary by road.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary History
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary has a history rooted in conservation and the protection of its unique ecosystem. Here is a brief overview of the history of Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary:
Establishment: Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary was officially established in 1981, when it was notified as a protected area under the wildlife protection laws of India. The sanctuary was created to safeguard the diverse flora and fauna found in the region, with a particular focus on conserving the critically endangered gharial, which inhabits the Mahanadi River and its tributaries in the area.
Adjacent to Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary: Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in close proximity to the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary. These two sanctuaries together form part of the larger Satkosia Tiger Reserve, which was designated in 2007. This designation aimed to provide a more comprehensive and interconnected protected area for wildlife conservation in the Eastern Ghats region.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 168.35 square kilometers (41,600 acres). This sanctuary encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and moist peninsular Sal forests.
It provides habitat for a diverse range of wildlife species and is particularly known for its importance in conserving the gharial population in the Mahanadi River and its surrounding water bodies.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the banks of the Mahanadi River. This majestic river flows through the sanctuary, making it a significant feature of the landscape.
The Mahanadi River and its tributaries are vital for the ecology of the sanctuary and serve as essential habitats for various wildlife species, including the critically endangered gharial.
The river and its associated water bodies provide not only a source of water but also a critical breeding ground for these crocodiles and other aquatic life. The presence of the Mahanadi River enhances the biodiversity and natural beauty of the Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary features a diverse range of flora due to its varied ecosystems, which include deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and moist peninsular Sal forests.
Here are some of the prominent plant species and types of flora found in the sanctuary:
- Sal (Shorea robusta)
- Karada
- Piasal
- Bamboo
- Amla
- Bela
- Dhaura
- Jamu
- Kadamba
- Kanchan
- Kangara
- Karanja
- Kasi
- Kendu
- Kusum
- Mahul
- Mango
- Mundi
- Phasi
- Sidha
- Simul
- Teak
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
What animals are in the Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary?
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna. Here is a list of some of the notable wildlife species found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Asian Elephant
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Spotted Deer
- Sambar Deer
- Four-Horned Antelope (Chousingha)
- Sloth Bear
- Wild Boar
Birds:
- Oriental Turtle Dove
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- King Cobra
- Monitor Lizard
- Gharial
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. The Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state of India?/In which district is Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary situated?
A. The Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Odisha, and it is situated in the Nayagarh district of Odisha.
Q. What is Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily famous for its efforts in conserving the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), a species of crocodile. Here are the key reasons for its fame:
(i) Conservation of Gharials: Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is recognized for its role in conserving the gharial population. The sanctuary is strategically located along the Mahanadi River, providing a critical habitat for gharials and supporting their breeding and nesting activities.
(ii) Protection of Wildlife: Apart from gharials, the sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Asian elephants, tigers, leopards, spotted deer, four-horned antelope (Chousingha), and various species of birds and reptiles. It plays a vital role in preserving and protecting these wildlife species.
(iii) Diverse Ecosystems: The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and moist peninsular Sal forests. These ecosystems support a wide variety of plant and animal life, contributing to the biodiversity of the region.
(iv) Scenic Landscapes: The sanctuary offers scenic landscapes with heavily forested hilly terrains, making it an attractive destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers.
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