Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a significant protected area in the region. It falls within the Coastal Zone/Gangetic Plain biogeographic zone.
Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary has been designated as an elephant reserve due to its importance as a habitat for wild elephants. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation and management of these majestic creatures.
The sanctuary is easily accessible from Bhubaneswar, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. It is a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways for people living in and around Bhubaneswar.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the months of November to February, which is generally considered the winter season in the region when the weather is pleasant for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
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Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Odisha. Specifically, it is situated near the city of Bhubaneswar, which is the capital of Odisha.
The sanctuary is in the Khurda and Cuttack districts of Odisha and serves as the northern edge of the Eastern Ghats. Bhubaneswar, being the nearest major city and transportation hub, is the primary access point for visitors to the sanctuary.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhubaneswar Airport (Biju Patnaik International Airport). It is located approximately 20 kilometers away from the sanctuary and is the most convenient airport for travelers arriving by air.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhubaneswar Railway Station. It serves as a major railway junction in the region and is well-connected to various cities and towns across India. From Bhubaneswar Railway Station, you can easily access the sanctuary by road.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary History
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Bhubaneswar in the state of Odisha, India, has a history associated with its declaration as a wildlife sanctuary and subsequent conservation efforts. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Declaration as a Wildlife Sanctuary: Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified as a wildlife sanctuary in 1982. The declaration was made to protect the natural habitat and wildlife.
Conservation of Asian Elephants: One of the primary objectives of declaring Chandaka Dampara as a wildlife sanctuary was to conserve the wild Asian elephants that reside in this area. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for these magnificent creatures and helps in the conservation and management of their population.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 193.39 square kilometers (19,339 hectares). This protected area in the Indian state of Odisha is significant in size and serves as an important habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including Asian elephants, deer, various birds, reptiles, and other fauna and flora.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
Which type of forest is Chandaka?
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in biodiversity and hosts a diverse range of flora. The sanctuary's vegetation is characterized by various types of forests, primarily semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Here are some of the notable flora found within the sanctuary:
Sal Trees (Shorea robusta): Sal is a dominant species and a characteristic tree in the region, constituting a significant portion of the forest cover.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is another prominent tree species found in the sanctuary, known for its high-quality timber.
Karanja (Pongamia pinnata): Karanja is a common tree species with various uses, including medicinal and environmental benefits.
Kochila (Albizia lebbeck): Also known as Siris, this tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and is an integral part of the sanctuary's flora.
Kumbhi (Terminalia arjuna): Kumbhi is a medicinal tree species and is found in the sanctuary.
Bamboo (Bambusa bambos): Bamboo is a significant plant species in the sanctuary and plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
Kangada (Saccharum spontaneum): Kangada is a type of grass commonly found in the sanctuary, providing habitat and sustenance to various wildlife.
Sunari (Asparagus racemosus): Sunari is a herbaceous plant with medicinal properties and is part of the sanctuary's diverse flora.
Giringa (Stereospermum chelonoides): Giringa is a flowering tree found in the region, contributing to the biodiversity of the sanctuary.
Jamu (Syzygium cumini): Also known as Java plum or black plum, Jamu is a fruit-bearing tree found in the sanctuary.
Xylia xylocarpa: This is a tree species native to Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, known for its timber.
Eupatorium Species: Eupatorium is a genus of flowering plants, and certain species within this genus may be found in the sanctuary.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. Here's a list of some of the notable fauna found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Asian Elephant
- Spotted Deer
- Barking Deer
- Mouse Deer
- Wild Boar
- Grey Langur
- Rhesus Macaque
- Small Indian Civet
- Grey Mongoose
- Small Indian Mongoose
- Ruddy Mongoose
- Pangolin
- Sloth Bear
- Indian Wolf
- Striped Hyaena
Birds:
- Peafowl
- Red Junglefowl
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Great Horned Owl
- Black-hooded Oriole
- Paradise Flycatcher
- Coucal, Stone Curlew
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- King Cobra
- Monitor Lizard
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which state/district?
A. Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Odisha. It spans across two districts within Odisha: Khurda and Cuttack. This sanctuary is situated near the state capital, Bhubaneswar, making it easily accessible to visitors from the region and beyond.
Q. When was Chandaka Elephant Sanctuary established?
A. The Chandaka Elephant Sanctuary, also known as the Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary, was established in the year 1982. This sanctuary, located in the state of Odisha, India, serves as an important habitat for the conservation of Asian elephants and other wildlife species in the region.
Q. Why is Chandaka wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, is famous for several reasons:
(i) Asian Elephant Conservation: One of the primary reasons for its fame is its role in the conservation of the Asian elephant. The sanctuary is home to a significant population of wild Asian elephants, and it was established with the primary intent of safeguarding these majestic creatures and their diminishing habitat.
(ii) Biodiversity: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a rich and diverse range of flora and fauna. In addition to elephants, it is home to various other wildlife species, including deer, wild boar, monkeys, civets, mongooses, pangolins, bears, wolves, hyenas, a variety of bird species, reptiles, and more. This biodiversity makes it a valuable area for ecological research and wildlife enthusiasts.
(iii) Proximity to Urban Area: The sanctuary's proximity to Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, makes it easily accessible to both residents and tourists. Its close location to an urban area allows for eco-tourism and educational opportunities, enabling people to connect with nature and learn about wildlife conservation.
(iv) Rich Flora: Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary boasts a variety of flora, including semi-evergreen forests and a range of plant species. This diverse vegetation enhances the overall ecological value of the sanctuary and provides vital habitats for its wildlife.
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