Ratapani Tiger Reserve UPSC
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the popular tiger reserves in the state and covers an area of approximately 824 square kilometers (318 square miles). The reserve was initially declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1976 and later designated as a tiger reserve in 2013.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including a significant population of tigers. It is home to several other species of mammals, such as leopards, wild boars, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, and Indian gazelles.
The landscape of Ratapani Tiger Reserve is characterized by undulating terrain, hilly areas, and deciduous forests. The reserve comprises dense forests of teak, sal, bamboo, and other tree species.
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Ratapani Tiger Reserve Location
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) away from Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. The reserve is surrounded by the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is strategically located and serves as an important corridor between the eastern and western parts of Madhya Pradesh. It facilitates movement of wildlife, including tigers, between the two regions, ensuring genetic diversity and maintaining healthy populations.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Ratapani Tiger Reserve is Raja Bhoj Airport, also known as Bhopal Airport. It is located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, India. The airport is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) away from Ratapani Tiger Reserve.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Ratapani Tiger Reserve is Habibganj Railway Station, which is located in Bhopal. It is a major railway station and is well-connected to various cities in India. From Habibganj Railway Station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ratapani Tiger Reserve, which is around 55 kilometers (34 miles) away.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve History
Ratapani Tiger Reserve has a significant history in terms of wildlife conservation and protection. Here are some key milestones:
Wildlife Sanctuary: Ratapani was initially declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1976. The sanctuary was established to protect the diverse flora and fauna in the region.
Tiger Reserve: In 2013, Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as a tiger reserve. This upgrade in status aimed to focus on the conservation and protection of the tiger population in the area. It is the 7th tiger reserve of Madhya Pradesh.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Area
Ratapani Tiger Reserve covers an area of approximately 824 square kilometers (318 square miles). This vast expanse of land encompasses diverse habitats, including dense forests, hilly terrains, and water bodies. The reserve's large area provides ample space for various wildlife species, including tigers, to roam and thrive in their natural surroundings.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Hills
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is situated in an area that is characterized by undulating terrain and hilly landscapes. The reserve is surrounded by the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, which contribute to the picturesque beauty of the region.
The hilly areas within Ratapani Tiger Reserve add to the overall topographical diversity and create varied habitats for wildlife. These hills are covered with dense forests, including teak, sal, bamboo, and other tree species, providing essential shelter and food sources for the resident fauna.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve River/Lake
Dahod Dam, Ratapani Dam (Barrusot lake) and Barna Dam are large water bodies inside the Ratapani Tiger Reserve.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Flora
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is characterized by diverse flora, with a variety of plant species found within its boundaries. The reserve's vegetation comprises both dry deciduous forests and moist deciduous forests, which contribute to the rich biodiversity of the region.
Here are some notable plant species found in Ratapani Tiger Reserve:
Teak (Tectona grandis): Teak is one of the dominant tree species in the reserve. It is known for its durable wood and is highly valued for its timber. About 55% of the Ratapani Tiger Reserve area is covered by teak.
Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal trees are widespread in Ratapani Tiger Reserve. They are an important component of the forest ecosystem and provide habitat and food for various animal species.
Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Bamboo groves can be found in different parts of the reserve. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant and plays a crucial role in stabilizing soil, providing shelter, and serving as a food source for wildlife.
Mahua (Madhuca longifolia): Mahua trees are found in the forests of Ratapani Tiger Reserve. The tree is known for its edible flowers and fruits, which are utilized by both humans and wildlife.
Terminalia (Terminalia spp.): Several species of Terminalia, such as Terminalia arjuna and Terminalia belerica, are present in the reserve. These trees have medicinal properties and are used in traditional herbal remedies.
Indian Ghost Tree (Kailashpati, Sterculia urens): This unique tree species with white bark and beautiful flowers is also found in Ratapani Tiger Reserve.
Apart from these, Ratapani Tiger Reserve is home to a wide range of other plant species, including shrubs, climbers, grasses, and herbs, contributing to the overall floral diversity and ecological balance of the reserve.
Ratapani Tiger Reserve Fauna (Ratapani Tiger Reserve Animals)
Ratapani Tiger Reserve is renowned for its diverse fauna, including a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife species. The reserve's rich biodiversity supports a range of iconic and endangered species.
Here are some notable examples of fauna found in Ratapani Tiger Reserve:
Mammals:
- Tiger
- Leopard
- Sloth Bear
- Dhole
- Hyena
- Jackal
- Fox
- Chital
- Sambar
- Nilgai
- Four-horned Antelope
- Langur
- Rhesus Macaque
- Wild Boar
- Squirrels
- Mongooses
Birds:
- Oriental White-backed Vulture
- Long-billed Vulture
- Red-headed Vulture
- Sarus Crane
- Painted Stork
- Black-necked Stork
- White-necked Stork
Reptiles:
- Lizards
- Chameleon
- Cobra
- Python
- Viper
- Krait
Top Things to do in Ratapani Tiger Reserve
When visiting Ratapani Tiger Reserve, there are several activities and experiences that you can enjoy. Here are some top things to do in Ratapani Tiger Reserve:
- Wildlife Safari
- Bird Watching
- Nature Walks and Trekking
- Photography
- Explore Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
- Village Visits and Cultural Experiences
- Nature Appreciation and Conservation Activities
Ratapani Tiger Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. In which year was Ratapani declared as Tiger Reserve?
A. In 2013, Ratapani was declared as Tiger Reserve.
Q. In which district is Ratapani Tiger Reserve?
A. Ratapani Tiger Reserve is located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
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