Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a protected area and is well-known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of flora and fauna
The sanctuary is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including dry evergreen forests, hilly slopes, rolling forested hills, and low valleys.
Moreover, the Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary holds cultural and religious significance due to the presence of the Ahobilam Temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. This adds to its value as both a natural reserve and a place of spiritual importance.
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Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Location
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nellore district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is positioned between two significant hill passes, namely the Badvel - Nellore road and the Kadapa - Rajampet road.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to the Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Tirupati. It is known as Tirupati Airport.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is in the town of Nellore. Nellore has a railway station that provides a convenient rail link for travelers visiting the Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary History
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary, formerly known as the Veliconda Wildlife Sanctuary, has a history that includes its establishment, renaming, and conservation efforts. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Establishment and Notification: The sanctuary was officially notified as a protected area in the year 1997. It was originally proposed as the Velikonda Wildlife Sanctuary due to the presence of critically endangered species, particularly the Jerdon's Courser, on the western slopes of Turupukonda Hills. However, it was formally declared as the Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary later.
Renaming: The sanctuary was renamed Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary, likely to emphasize its cultural and religious significance. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, and the Ahobilam Temple, which is located within the sanctuary, is an important pilgrimage site.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Area
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 1030.85 square kilometers (or 103,085 hectares). The sanctuary's size and diverse landscapes make it an important habitat for various wildlife species and a significant natural and cultural asset in the region.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Hills
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its hilly terrain and is located within the Velligonda hill range. These hills are part of the Eastern Ghats, a mountain range that runs along the eastern coast of India.
The sanctuary's topography consists of hilly slopes and rolling forested hills. These hills are interspersed with valleys and rocky outcrops, creating a diverse and picturesque landscape.
The presence of hills and varied terrain offers opportunities for trekking and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot, following designated trekking trails, and get closer to the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary River
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is associated with several rivers and water bodies in its vicinity. One of the notable rivers near the sanctuary is the Penna River, which plays a significant role in the region's geography and ecology. Here's some information about the river and its connection to the sanctuary:
1. Penna River:
The Penna River is one of the major rivers in southern India, flowing through the states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. It is not within the sanctuary's boundaries but is in proximity to the sanctuary.
2. Somasila Dam:
One of the key features near the Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is the Somasila Dam. This dam is constructed on the Penna River and is located in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. It serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and water supply.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora, including dry evergreen forests and other plant species adapted to the region's climate and terrain. Here are some of the prominent flora species found in the sanctuary:
(1) Dry Evergreen Forests:
The sanctuary is characterized by dry evergreen forests, which are adapted to the region's relatively arid climate. These forests typically include a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, and other vegetation.
(2) Acacia (Acacia spp.):
Acacia species are commonly found in the sanctuary. These drought-resistant trees and shrubs are well-suited to dry environments.
(3) Cassia (Cassia spp.):
Cassia species, including various types of cassia or senna plants, are also part of the sanctuary's flora. Some cassia species are known for their bright yellow flowers.
(4) Pongamia (Pongamia spp.):
Pongamia trees, also known as Indian beech or Millettia pinnata, are native to the Indian subcontinent and are found in the sanctuary. They are valued for their oil-rich seeds.
(5) Carissa (Carissa spp.):
Carissa species, such as Carissa carandas, are thorny shrubs or small trees that produce edible fruits. They are often found in dry regions.
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)
The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. Here are some of the notable fauna found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Leopard
- Spotted Deer (Chital)
- Sambar Deer
- Chinkara
- Bluebull
- Four-horned Antelope
- Sloth Bear
- Grey Wolf
- Jackal
- Wild Boar
- Golden Jackal
- Indian Fox
Birds:
- Jerdon’s Courser
- Yellow-throated Bulbul
Reptiles:
- Garden Lizard
- Indian Python
- Common Cobra
- Common Sand Boa
- Russell’s Viper
- Sawscaled Viper
- Common Wolf Snake
Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Which wildlife sanctuary is in Nellore district?
A. The Sri Penusila Narasimha Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nellore district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.
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