Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary)

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC (Kulik Bird Sanctuary)

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Kulik Bird Sanctuary, is located in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is renowned for its avian diversity, particularly as a bird sanctuary. The Kulik Bird Sanctuary is home to 164 bird species.

Kulik is one of Asia’s largest bird sanctuaries, with Asia’s largest colony (heronry) of Open-billed Storks. 

Nesting occurs between July and August, and egg laying occurs between August and September.

Table of Contents Location History Area River Flora Fauna UPSC Questions

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) is located near the town of Raiganj in the Uttar Dinajpur district of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is situated along National Highway 34, and a portion of the sanctuary is bordered by the Kulik River. 

The sanctuary is approximately 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) north of the center of Raiganj town, which serves as the district headquarters for Uttar Dinajpur.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary is Bagdogra Airport. Bagdogra Airport is approximately 181 kilometers (about 112 miles) away from Raiganj. It serves as the closest major airport for travelers coming to Raiganj by air.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary is the Jalpaiguri Railway Station. Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the main railway station in the region and is commonly used by travelers to access Raiganj and its surrounding areas. It is located at a distance of approximately 100-120 kilometers (about 62-75 miles) from Raiganj, depending on the specific route taken.

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) is rooted in its development as a protected area and a haven for migratory and resident bird species. Here's an overview of its history:

1. Early Development: The sanctuary's history can be traced back to the early 1970s when the Government of West Bengal initiated a social forestry program in the region. As part of this program, various tree species, including kadam, jarul, sisoo (Dalbergia sisoo), and eucalyptus, were planted. This afforestation effort aimed to create a forested area in what was previously barren land.

2. Emergence as a Bird Sanctuary: The significant turning point in the sanctuary's history occurred when it started attracting a diverse range of bird species, especially during the hatching season. The Asian Open-billed Storks, in particular, began nesting in the area, and this natural phenomenon gained attention.

3. Official Designation: In recognition of the sanctuary's growing importance as a bird habitat and the influx of migratory birds, Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary was officially designated as a protected area in the year 1985. It was during this period that the sanctuary's significance as a bird sanctuary became widely recognized.

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 1.30 square kilometers (130 hectares). This sanctuary is relatively compact in size but is ecologically significant due to its diverse avian population, making it an important site for bird conservation and ecotourism in the Indian state of West Bengal.

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary River

Which river flows in Kulik Bird Sanctuary?

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) is situated along the banks of the Kulik River in the Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal, India. The Kulik River flows around a portion of the sanctuary, serving as a natural border in the eastern and southern parts of the sanctuary. 

This river is an integral part of the sanctuary's ecosystem and provides a water source and habitat for various bird and aquatic species, contributing to the sanctuary's biodiversity. 

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) is located in the Indian state of West Bengal and is primarily known for its diverse avian population. However, it also contains various plant species in its habitat. Here are some of the flora commonly found in and around the sanctuary:

Ficus benghalensis (Banyan): The banyan tree is a prominent species in many parts of India, and it may be found in the sanctuary. These trees are known for their extensive root systems and large canopies.

Anthocephallus cadamba (Kadamba): The kadamba tree is valued for its fragrant flowers and is often used in traditional rituals. It contributes to the rich biodiversity of the sanctuary.

Alstonia scholaris (Indian Devil Tree): This tree is known for its tall stature and is used for various purposes, including in traditional medicine.

Barringtonia acutangula (Indian Oak): Also known as Hijal, this tree is typically found near water bodies and provides habitat for various species.

Terminalia arjuna (Arjuna Tree): The arjuna tree is known for its medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic medicine. It's often found near rivers and streams.

Dalbergia sisoo (Indian Rosewood or Sissoo): Sissoo trees are commonly found in the Indian subcontinent and are valued for their wood, which is used in furniture making.

Lagerstroemia speciosa (Jarul): This tree is known for its striking purple or pink flowers and is commonly found in the region.

Streblus asper (Seora): Seora is a deciduous tree that is part of the dry deciduous forest ecosystem in the sanctuary.

Trewia nodiflora (Pituli): Pituli is a shrub or small tree found in various parts of India and is often used in traditional medicine.

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) is known for its diverse fauna, particularly its avian species. However, it is also home to various other wildlife, both animals and reptiles. Here's an overview of the fauna found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Spotted Deer
• Jungle Cat
• Wild Boar
• Rhesus Macaque
• Mongooses

Birds:

• Openbilled Stork
• Flycatchers
• Kites
• Owl
• Woodpeckers
• Kingfishers
• Drongoes
• Egrets
• Black-crowned Night Heron
• Pond Heron
• Indian Shag
• little Cormorants

Reptiles:

• Snakes
• Lizards

Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which district is Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary?/In which state is Kulik Bird Sanctuary located?

A. Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Uttar Dinajpur district of the Indian state of West Bengal. The sanctuary is situated near the town of Raiganj, which serves as the district headquarters of Uttar Dinajpur.

Q. When was Kulik Bird Sanctuary established?

A. Kulik Bird Sanctuary, also known as Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary, was officially established in the year 1985. This designation recognized the area's growing importance as a bird habitat, particularly for its diverse avian population, and provided it with protected status under the Wildlife Protection Act of India. Since then, it has been a significant destination for birdwatchers, ornithologists, and nature enthusiasts interested in observing the rich birdlife in its natural setting.

Q. What is Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary) famous for?

A. Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:

(i) Avian Diversity: The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse birdlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and ornithologists. It is home to approximately 164 species of birds, both resident and migratory.

(ii) Migratory Birds: Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly famous for hosting a significant number of migratory birds, especially during the winter months. Species like Asian Open-billed Storks, Egrets, Night Herons, and Cormorants visit the sanctuary from the end of May to the first week of July and depart between December and January.

(iii) Open-billed Stork Colony: The sanctuary is known for hosting Asia's largest colony (heronry) of Open-billed Storks. This is a major highlight for bird enthusiasts, and witnessing these storks in their natural habitat is a remarkable experience.

(iv) Natural Beauty: The sanctuary's location along the Kulik River and its wetland ecosystem add to its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings, making it a peaceful place for nature lovers.

(v) Eco Park: The Raiganj Kulik Eco Park, located on the edge of the sanctuary, provides an additional attraction for visitors. It serves as a gateway to the sanctuary and enhances the overall visitor experience.