Satkosia Tiger Reserve UPSC
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Odisha, India. It is situated along the banks of the Mahanadi River and covers an area of approximately 963 square kilometers. The reserve was established in 2007 with the aim of conserving the endangered Royal Bengal Tigers and their habitat.
The name "Satkosia" is derived from two Odia words: "sat" means seven, and "kos" refers to a unit of distance, which was traditionally the distance a person could travel in a day. Satkosia thus represents the seven-kilometer-long gorge formed by the Mahanadi River, which is the central feature of the reserve.
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Satkosia Tiger Reserve Location
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in the Angul, Cuttack, Boudh and Nayagarh district of Odisha, India. It is situated along the banks of the Mahanadi River and is nestled within the Eastern Ghats mountain range. The reserve is lying in a transitional zone extending between the Chhota Nagpur Plateau and the Deccan Plateau. The nearest town to Satkosia Tiger Reserve is Angul, which is approximately 50 kilometers away.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Satkosia Tiger Reserve is the Biju Patnaik International Airport, which is located in Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha. It is approximately 140 kilometers away from the reserve. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Satkosia Tiger Reserve is the Angul Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. It is located at a distance of approximately 50 kilometers from the reserve. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve History
The history of Satkosia Tiger Reserve dates back to the early 20th century when it was first recognized as a potential area for wildlife conservation. The region was known for its rich biodiversity and the presence of Royal Bengal Tigers.
Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary: In 1976, Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary was established to protect the wildlife and their habitat along the Mahanadi River. The sanctuary covered an area of approximately 796 square kilometers. However, recognizing the need for enhanced conservation measures and specifically targeting the conservation of tigers, the sanctuary was upgraded to a tiger reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve: In 2007, Satkosia Tiger Reserve was officially designated as a protected area under the Project Tiger initiative of the Government of India. The aim was to provide a safe habitat for the endangered Royal Bengal Tigers and promote their conservation.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Area
Satkosia Tiger Reserve area comprises two adjoining sanctuaries as Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipalli Sanctuary.
The Satkosia Tiger Reserve covers a total area of 963.87 square kilometers. This area includes both the core/critical tiger habitat and the buffer/peripheral area.
The core/critical tiger habitat within the reserve spans approximately 523.61 square kilometers. This area is specifically designated to provide a secure and undisturbed habitat for the Royal Bengal Tigers, which are an endangered species. The core habitat is carefully managed and protected to ensure the survival and conservation of the tiger population.
The buffer/peripheral area of the Satkosia Tiger Reserve covers around 440.26 square kilometers. This area surrounds the core habitat and acts as a transitional zone between the core area and the surrounding human-dominated landscapes. The buffer zone plays a crucial role in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, promoting conservation awareness, and supporting sustainable development practices in the region.
Together, the core/critical tiger habitat and the buffer/peripheral area of Satkosia Tiger Reserve form a comprehensive conservation landscape, striving to protect the diverse flora and fauna of the region while focusing on the conservation of the Royal Bengal Tigers.
- Core/critical tiger habitat : 523.61 Sq.kms.
- Buffer/peripheral area : 440.26Sq.kms.
- Total : 963.87 Sq.kms
Note- Core area of the Satkosia Tiger Reserve is a part of the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve River
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is nestled along the banks of the Mahanadi River, which is a prominent river in the state of Odisha, India. The river plays a significant role in shaping the landscape and ecology of the reserve.
The Mahanadi River flows through the heart of Satkosia Tiger Reserve, forming the famous Satkosia Gorge. This seven-kilometer-long gorge is a striking feature of the reserve, characterized by steep cliffs and rocky outcrops. The river meanders through the gorge, creating a stunning and picturesque landscape.
The presence of the Mahanadi River is crucial for the biodiversity and functioning of the Satkosia Tiger Reserve. The river serves as a vital water source for the flora and fauna in the region. It sustains a diverse range of aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and the endangered gharials (a species of crocodile) that inhabit the river and its tributaries.
The river also attracts a rich variety of bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Numerous resident and migratory birds can be spotted along the riverbanks, taking advantage of the water and its associated habitats.
Additionally, the Mahanadi River serves as a natural boundary for the reserve, contributing to the protection and management of the Satkosia Tiger Reserve ecosystem. It acts as a barrier that helps reduce anthropogenic disturbances and human encroachments on the reserve, safeguarding the wildlife and their habitats.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Tribe
The Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in the state of Odisha, India, which is known for its rich tribal heritage. The reserve area is home to several indigenous tribal communities who have been residing in the region for centuries. These tribes have a deep connection with the forests, rivers, and wildlife of Satkosia, and their traditional lifestyles and cultural practices are intertwined with the natural environment.
One of the prominent tribes in the vicinity of Satkosia Tiger Reserve is the Kondh tribe. The Kondh tribe is one of the largest tribal communities in Odisha and has a significant presence in the surrounding areas. They have a distinct cultural identity, language, and traditional knowledge that has been passed down through generations.
The Kondh tribe, like many other indigenous communities, relies on the forest for their livelihoods, gathering forest produce, practicing shifting cultivation, and engaging in traditional hunting and fishing activities. They have a deep understanding of the local ecosystems and possess valuable knowledge about the medicinal plants, natural resources, and wildlife found in the region.
Other tribal communities found in the vicinity of Satkosia Tiger Reserve include the Munda, Kharia, and Bonda tribes, among others. Each tribe has its unique cultural practices, traditions, and ways of life, which are closely linked to the natural environment.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Flora
The flora of Satkosia Tiger Reserve is diverse and representative of the North Indian tropical moist deciduous forests and moist peninsular low-level sal forests. The reserve showcases various plant associations, with the dominant tree species being sal (Shorea robusta), which grows in dense formations.
In addition to sal, several associate species can be found within the reserve. Some of these species include:
Asan (Terminalia alata): Also known as Indian laurel, it is a large deciduous tree commonly found in the region. It has economic and medicinal importance.
Dhaura (Anogeissus latifolia): A deciduous tree known for its strong and durable wood. It is often found growing alongside sal trees.
Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus): This fast-growing, clump-forming bamboo species is common in the region. It forms dense thickets and provides important habitat for various wildlife species.
Simal (Bombax ceiba): Also known as the silk cotton tree, it is a large deciduous tree with a tall, straight trunk and a canopy that blooms with vibrant red flowers. It provides nesting sites for birds and is culturally significant.
Apart from these species, the reserve also features a mix of other tree species, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. The Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest, characterized by sal and mixed forests, is interspersed with open forest areas and riparian zones. Additionally, there are old Teak (Tectona grandis) plantations within the reserve.
Satkosia Tiger Reserve Fauna (Satkosia Tiger Reserve Animals)
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is home to a rich and diverse array of fauna, including several endangered and threatened species. The reserve's varied habitats, which include forests, riverbanks, and hills, support a wide range of wildlife.
Here are some of the notable fauna found in Satkosia Tiger Reserve:
Mammals:
- Bengal Tiger
- Leopard
- Elephant
- Spotted Deer
- Sambar
- Chowsingha
- Barking Deer
- Bison
- Wild Dog
- Sloth Bear
- Jackal
- Giant Squirrel
- Porcupine
Birds:
- Indian Pitta
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
- Indian Grey Hornbill
- Red Junglefowl
- Grey-headed Fish Eagle
- Indian Roller
- Great Indian Hornbill
- Pied Kingfisher
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- King Cobra
- Indian Chameleon
- Indian Rock Python
- Fresh Water Crocodile
- Gharial
Note- The Satkosia gorge is the natural habitat of two endangered species viz. fresh water crocodile and the gharial.
Top Things to do in Satkosia Tiger Reserve
When visiting Satkosia Tiger Reserve, there are several exciting activities and experiences to engage in. Here are some of the top things to do in Satkosia Tiger Reserve:
- Wildlife Safaris
- Nature Walks and Hiking
- Birdwatching
- River Rafting
- Village Visits and Cultural Interactions
- Camping and Bonfires
- Nature Photography
- Conservation Awareness Programs
- Visit Satkosia Gorge
- Relax and Rejuvenate
Satkosia Tiger Reserve UPSC Questions
Q. Where is Satkosia Tiger Reserve?/Which district is Satkosia Tiger Reserve in?
A. Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in the Angul, Cuttack, Boudh and Nayagarh district of Odisha, India.
Q. What comprises Satkosia Tiger Reserve?
A. Satkosia Tiger Reserve comprises two adjoining sanctuaries as Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipalli Sanctuary.
Q. Which river passes/flow through Satkosia Tiger Reserve?
A. Mahanadi River passes through Satkosia Tiger Reserve.
Q. How many tigers are there in Satkosia Tiger Reserve?
A. At the time of declaration Satkosia as a tiger reserve in 2007, it had about 12 tigers. Over the years, the big cat population dwindled. The Satkosia Tiger Reserve is left with only one tigress in 2022.
Q. What is Satkosia Tiger Reserve famous for?
A. Satkosia Tiger Reserve is famous for several reasons:
- Royal Bengal Tigers
- Scenic Satkosia Gorge
- Biodiversity
- Tribal Culture
- Adventure and Nature-based Activities
- Conservation Initiatives
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