Benog Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC)
The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary, is a popular wildlife reserve located near the hill station of Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, India. It is named after the Benog Hill, which is a prominent feature within the sanctuary. Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of famous Rajaji National Park.
The sanctuary is known for its diverse vegetation, including oak, rhododendron, cedar, and several other Himalayan tree species. The forest is dense and rich in biodiversity, providing a suitable habitat for various wildlife species.
The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of animals, including leopards, deer, langurs, black bears, mountain goats, and various species of birds like woodpeckers, thrushes, and pheasants. It also supports several species of reptiles and butterflies.
Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The region attracts a large number of migratory birds during the winter months, making it a great spot for bird watching.
The sanctuary offers several trekking routes and nature trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. These trails provide an opportunity to observe the wildlife and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
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Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Location (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary Location)
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Benog Wildlife Sanctuary/Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is the Jolly Grant Airport, located in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. It is approximately 60 kilometers away from Mussoorie. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Benog Wildlife Sanctuary/Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary is the Dehradun Railway Station. It is situated in Dehradun, approximately 35 kilometers away from Mussoorie. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the sanctuary.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary History (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary History)
The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary) has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era in India. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Colonial Connection: The area where the sanctuary is located was once a favorite retreat for the British during the colonial period. It was known for its cool climate and scenic beauty, attracting British officials and tourists alike.
Establishment: The sanctuary was established in 1993 with the objective of conserving the local flora and fauna in the Mussoorie region. It was initially named the Mussoorie Wildlife Range and later renamed as the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary.
Naming: The sanctuary gets its name from Benog Hill, which is an important feature within its boundaries. It is also known as Vinog Mountain Quail Sanctuary.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Area (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary Area)
What is the area of Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary?
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary River (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary River)
The Aglar River, a tributary of the Yamuna River, flow through the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary).
The Aglar River adds to the natural beauty and ecological significance of the sanctuary. It provides water resources to the local flora and fauna, supporting the diverse ecosystem within the sanctuary's boundaries. The river also contributes to the overall hydrological system of the region.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Flora (Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary Flora)
The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary, boasts a diverse range of flora that thrives in the Himalayan region. Here are some of the notable flora species found in the sanctuary:
(1) Oak Trees:
The sanctuary is characterized by dense oak forests. Different species of oak, such as Quercus leucotrichophora (Banj oak), Quercus floribunda (Moru oak), and Quercus semecarpifolia (Himalayan oak), can be found throughout the sanctuary.
(2) Rhododendrons:
The sanctuary is renowned for its vibrant rhododendron flowers. Various species of rhododendrons, including Rhododendron arboreum (red rhododendron), Rhododendron campanulatum (pink rhododendron), and Rhododendron lepidotum (white rhododendron), add splashes of color to the sanctuary during the blooming season.
(3) Cedar Trees:
Himalayan cedar trees, scientifically known as Cedrus deodara, are found in the lower regions of the sanctuary. These majestic trees with their distinctive fragrance are an integral part of the Himalayan landscape.
(4) Pine Trees:
Different species of pine trees, such as Pinus roxburghii (Chir pine) and Pinus wallichiana (Himalayan blue pine), can be found in the sanctuary. These coniferous trees contribute to the forest ecosystem and provide a unique charm to the surroundings.
(5) Other Tree Species:
The sanctuary is also home to other tree species like Himalayan birch (Betula utilis), Himalayan yew (Taxus wallichiana), horse chestnut (Aesculus indica), and many more.
(6) Shrubs, Herbs, and Medicinal Plants:
Apart from these tree species, the sanctuary supports a variety of shrubs, herbs, and medicinal plants. These include species like stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), Himalayan raspberry (Rubus ellipticus), ferns, orchids, and numerous other flowering plants.
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Mussoorie Fauna (Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Mussoorie Animals)
Which animal is famous in Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary?
Mammals:
- Himalayan Black Bear
- Leopard
- Indian Muntjac (Barking Deer)
- Yellow-throated Marten
- Indian Porcupine
- Himalayan Goral
- Himalayan Weasel
- Common Langur (Hanuman Langur)
- Indian Crested Porcupine
- Himalayan Palm Civet
- Indian Hare
Birds:
What birds are in the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary?
- White Capped Water Redstart
- Red Billed Blue Magpie
- Hill Partridge
- Khalij Pheasant
- Eurasian Jay
- Black-headed Jay
- Yellow-billed Blue Magpie
- Red-billed Blue Magpie
- Rufous-bellied Woodpecker
- Himalayan Woodpecker
- Eurasian Sparrowhawk
- Crested Kingfisher
Reptiles:
- Common Indian Monitor Lizard
- Himalayan Pit Viper
- Common Kukri Snake
- Banded Racer
- Himalayan Keelback
- Himalayan Cobra
Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, Mussoorie UPSC Question
Q. What is the Benog Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
A.The Benog Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Mussoorie Wildlife Sanctuary, is famous for several reasons. Here are some of the key aspects for which the sanctuary is renowned:
(i) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is celebrated for its rich biodiversity. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including various animal species, birds, reptiles, and insects. The sanctuary's ecological significance and the presence of numerous wildlife species make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
(ii) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary is located in the picturesque hills of Mussoorie in the Garhwal Himalayas. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and dense forests. Visitors can enjoy the serene and captivating natural beauty of the sanctuary while exploring its trails and viewpoints.
(iii) Bird Watching: Benog Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers. The sanctuary attracts a wide variety of bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like the Hill Partridge, Khalij Pheasant, Himalayan Woodpecker, and many others. The sanctuary provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and capturing beautiful avian sightings.
(iv) Trekking and Nature Trails: The sanctuary offers several trekking routes and nature trails, allowing visitors to explore its diverse landscapes. These trails provide an opportunity to immerse in the natural surroundings, witness the flora and fauna up close, and enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayan region.
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