North Island Wildlife Sanctuary

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary located in the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. It boasts beautiful beaches surrounded by numerous small islands.

The island is home to Saddle Peak, the highest peak in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, standing at 731 meters.

The island offers a variety of habitats, including open sea, coral reefs, vegetated islands, mangroves, and tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests.

The best time to visit North Island is from November to April.

Table of Contents North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Location North Island Wildlife Sanctuary History North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Area North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Flora North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna Mammals Birds Reptile

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Location

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary is located on North Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which are part of India. This sanctuary is situated on North Island, which is a member of the Great Andaman group. 

It is positioned to the north of Middle Andaman Island and is quite close to Arial Bay. North Island is known for its lush forests, diverse wildlife, and beautiful beaches, making it an important location for wildlife conservation and natural beauty in the region.

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary History

The North Island Wildlife Sanctuary was established to protect and conserve the rich biodiversity of the region. 

Conservation Efforts: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna, including many endangered and endemic species. The establishment of wildlife sanctuaries in the region is part of broader conservation efforts to protect and preserve this natural heritage.

Notification: Typically, the establishment of a wildlife sanctuary involves an official notification by the government, designating a specific area as a protected sanctuary. The North Island Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified on February 16, 1987, according to the information you provided.

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The North Island Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 0.49 square kilometers (49 hectares). This sanctuary is a relatively small but important protected area dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the island's unique biodiversity, including various species of wildlife and plants.

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The flora of the North Island Wildlife Sanctuary in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is characterized by a rich and diverse range of plant species, as the island is part of a tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forest ecosystem. 

Here are some of the notable plant species that you may find in and around the North Island Wildlife Sanctuary:

Bamboo: Various species of bamboo are often found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Bamboo is an important resource for the local people and plays a significant role in the island's ecology.

Andaman Padauk (Pterocarpus dalbergioides): This is a hardwood tree native to the Andaman Islands. Its wood is highly valued for its durability and is used in construction and furniture.

Andaman Bullet Wood (Mimusops elengi): This tree is known for its fragrant flowers and is used in traditional medicine. It also produces hard, durable wood.

Pandanus Species: Pandanus trees and shrubs are common in coastal areas of the Andaman Islands. They have unique prop roots and are adapted to saltwater environments.

Ficus retusa: This is a species of fig tree commonly found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Ficus trees are known for their ecological importance as they provide food and shelter for various wildlife species.

Manilkara littoralis: Also known as the beach milkwood, this tree is found in coastal areas and is adapted to saline conditions.

Pongamia pinnata: This is a native tree species known for its oil-rich seeds, which can be used for biofuel production.

North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (North Island Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The North Island Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various species of animals and birds. Here are some of the notable fauna species you may encounter in and around the North Island Wildlife Sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Andaman Wild Pig

Birds:

• Green Imperial Pegion
• Edible Nest Swiftlet
• Nicobar Scrub-Fowl
• Nicobar Pigeon
• Andanam Crake
• Serpent-Eagle
• Andaman Tern
• Andaman Teal

Reptiles:

• Giant Leatherback Turtles
• Hawksbill Turtle
• Green Turtle
• Andaman Water Monitor