Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Rollapadu Bird Sanctuary, is a protected area located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily known for its population of the Great Indian Bustard, which is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world. This sanctuary is one of the last remaining strongholds for this critically endangered species.
The sanctuary is open to the public, and visitors can explore its natural beauty and observe various bird species. It is an excellent destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
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Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Location
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated near the village of Rollapadu, which is approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Nandikotkur town. Nandikotkur is a town in the Kurnool district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
The sanctuary is located in the plains between the Nallamalai and Erramalai ranges of the Eastern Ghats. The River Krishna flows northwest of Nandikotkur, giving a general sense of its geographic location in relation to nearby natural features.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is the Kurnool Airport (also known as Orvakal Airport). It is located at a distance of approximately 50-60 kilometers from Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary. However, please note that Kurnool Airport has limited commercial flight operations, and travelers may need to consider other nearby airports like Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which is a major international airport with better connectivity.
Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is the Nandikotkur Railway Station. Nandikotkur is the closest town to the sanctuary, and the railway station is located in this town. From Nandikotkur Railway Station, you can make further arrangements for reaching Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, which is approximately 18 kilometers away from Nandikotkur town.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary History
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary has a history that primarily revolves around its establishment as a protected area to conserve the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) and its associated wildlife. Here's a brief history of Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary:
1. 1984 - Discovery of Great Indian Bustard Population: Rollapadu shot to fame in July 1984 when a flock of 35 Great Indian Bustards was discovered in the area. This discovery was significant because the Great Indian Bustard is a critically endangered bird species, and its population had been rapidly declining.
2. Recommendations for Sanctuary Establishment: Recognizing the importance of Rollapadu as a habitat for the Great Indian Bustard, the Endangered Species Project of the Bombay Natural History Society made recommendations to the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department to establish a sanctuary for the protection of this species.
3. Establishment: In response to the recommendations, the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department took action, and the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary was officially declared in 1988. The primary objective of the sanctuary was to provide a protected environment for the critically endangered bustard species.
4. Wildlife Diversity: Over the years, Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary has become known not only for the Great Indian Bustard but also for its diverse avifauna. It hosts a variety of bird species, including the Lesser Florican and a significant population of harriers. Additionally, the sanctuary has contributed to the conservation of the Blackbuck population.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Area
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 6.14 square kilometers (2.37 square miles). This sanctuary is relatively small in size but of significant importance for the conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard and other wildlife species in the region.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the plains between the Nallamalai and Erramalai ranges of the Eastern Ghats in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. While it is situated in a region that is generally characterized by its plains and grasslands, it is not known for having prominent hills or mountainous terrain within the sanctuary itself.
While the sanctuary itself does not have hills or mountains, the nearby Nallamalai and Erramalai ranges offer hilly and forested landscapes, providing a diverse range of habitats in the broader region.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is close to the River Krishna, but the sanctuary itself does not contain a major river or watercourse within its boundaries. Instead, it features two small streams or rivulets that flow through the sanctuary. These streams likely provide some water resources for the wildlife and vegetation within the sanctuary.
The proximity to the River Krishna and the presence of these smaller water sources contribute to the overall ecological diversity of the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
What is the flora of the Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary?
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its unique flora, which primarily consists of grasses, shrubs, and small trees. The sanctuary's vegetation is adapted to the semi-arid and arid conditions of the region.
Here are some of the key flora found in Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary:
Prosopis cineraria: Also known as the Indian mesquite or Khejri, this tree is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid regions and is native to the Indian subcontinent. It provides shade and fodder for livestock.
Cassia fistula: Commonly known as the Indian laburnum or Amaltas, this tree is famous for its beautiful yellow flowers. It's a widely cultivated ornamental tree and is also used in traditional medicine.
Butea monosperma: Also called the flame of the forest or Palash, this tree is known for its striking orange-red flowers. It is used in various cultural and religious traditions and has medicinal properties.
Ziziphus mauritiana: This is the Indian jujube or Ber tree, which produces small, sweet fruits known as Ber. It is used for its fruits, leaves, and even the wood.
Morinda tinctoria: Commonly known as Indian mulberry, its roots are used to make a red dye, and it also has medicinal properties.
Carissa spinarum: Known as the conkerberry or Karanda, it produces edible fruits and is also used for traditional medicine.
Cassia auriculata: This plant, also called Tanner's Cassia or Avaram Senna, has yellow flowers and is used in traditional medicine and as a dye.
Diospyros melanoxylon: Known as the Indian ebony or Kendu, this tree produces hard and durable wood.
Phoenix sylvestris: Also called the Indian date palm, it produces edible fruits and has various uses, including for thatching and basketry.
Chrysopogon fulvus: This is a grass species that is part of the flora in the region.
Heteropogon contortus: Another grass species that contributes to the grassland ecosystem in the region.
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
Which animal is protected in Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary?
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including several bird species, mammals, reptiles, and other wildlife. Here is an overview of the notable fauna found in Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Blackbuck
- Grey Wolf
- Golden Jackal
- Jungle Cat
- Indian Grey Mongoose
- Indian Hare
- Indian Fox
Birds:
- Great Indian Bustard
- Lesser Florican
- Harriers
Reptiles:
- Snakes
- Lizards
Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. When was Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary established?
A. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1988. It was created primarily to protect the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) and its habitat. This sanctuary, located in the Kurnool district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, has since played a crucial role in the conservation of this iconic bird species and the preservation of the unique grassland ecosystem in the region.
Q. How much area is covered by Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary?
A. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 6.14 square kilometers (2.37 square miles). This sanctuary, though relatively small in size, is significant for its role in the conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard and its unique semi-arid grassland ecosystem.
Q. What is Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:
(i) Great Indian Bustard: The sanctuary is renowned for being one of the last remaining strongholds of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps). This majestic bird is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world, and Rollapadu plays a crucial role in its conservation.
(ii) Conservation Efforts: Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary was primarily established to protect the Great Indian Bustard and its habitat. Conservationists and authorities have made significant efforts to safeguard this endangered species within the sanctuary.
(iii) Birdwatching: The sanctuary is a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts due to its diverse avifauna. It is home to numerous bird species, including harriers and the Lesser Florican, making it a paradise for birdwatching.
(iv) Blackbuck Population: Rollapadu has contributed to the conservation of the Blackbuck population, with their numbers increasing within the sanctuary over the years.
(v) Unique Ecosystem: The sanctuary's semi-arid grasslands, shrubs, and small water bodies provide a unique ecosystem that supports a variety of wildlife, making it an interesting place for ecological studies.
(vi) Roosting Harriers: It hosts one of India's largest roosts of harriers, including several species like Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier, Marsh Harrier, and Pied Harrier.
(vii) Flora: Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a range of plant species adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.
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