The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary recently seen in the news is located in:...
Recently, suspected Maoists reportedly opened fire at Forest department watchers at the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kannur, Kerala.
- It is located on the western slopes of the Western Ghats.
- It is the northern most wildlife sanctuary of Kerala which was established in 1984.
- It is contiguous with Wayanad-Brahmagiri, Wayanad northern slopes and the Protected Areas of Karnataka State namely the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and also the forests of Coorg.
- Highest peak of this sanctuary is Katti Betta.
- It is the only protected area of the West Coast Tropical Evergreen forest of Dipterocarpus-Mesua- Palaquium type.
- The river Cheenkani flows through this wildlife sanctuary.
- Vegetation: Forest coast tropical evergreen and west coast semievergreen forests are predominant here.
- Flora: The common trees in the semievergreen areas are Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, Hopea parviflora, Largestroemia lanceolata, Xyliaxylocarpa, Mallotus and Philippinensis.
- Fauna: Deer, boar, elephant, and bison are quite common. Leopard, jungle cat and various types of squirrels are sighted here.
Hence option (b) is the correct answer.
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary recently seen in the news is located in:...
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kerala. It is a well-known wildlife sanctuary in the northern part of the state. Let's explore more about this sanctuary and its significance.
Location and Geography:
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Kannur and Wayanad districts of Kerala. It covers an area of approximately 55 square kilometers. The sanctuary is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity. The sanctuary is nestled in the slopes of the Western Ghats, which adds to its scenic beauty.
Flora and Fauna:
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is known for its tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. The vegetation includes various species of trees, shrubs, herbs, and climbers. The sanctuary is also known for its extensive bamboo groves.
Wildlife:
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is teeming with a variety of wildlife species. It is home to several mammals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, wild boars, and langurs. The sanctuary is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it houses over 190 species of birds, including the Malabar grey hornbill, great pied hornbill, and Malabar trogon. Reptiles like the king cobra, python, and monitor lizard are also found in the sanctuary.
Conservation Efforts:
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary plays a significant role in the conservation of biodiversity in the region. The Kerala Forest Department actively manages the sanctuary and implements various conservation measures. These include anti-poaching activities, habitat restoration, and community participation in conservation initiatives. The sanctuary also serves as an important research and education center, promoting awareness about wildlife conservation.
Tourism and Activities:
The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary attracts nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers from all over. It offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife safaris. The sanctuary has well-laid-out trails for visitors to explore the rich biodiversity. The picturesque landscape and serene atmosphere make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
In conclusion, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is a significant protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. Its location in the Western Ghats adds to its ecological importance. The sanctuary's conservation efforts, along with its tourism potential, contribute to the overall conservation and awareness of the region's biodiversity.
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