Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is a relatively small wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna. 

The sanctuary is primarily composed of dry deciduous forests, and it serves as a habitat for various species of plants and animals. Some of the notable wildlife species found in Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary include Indian peafowls, spotted deer, sambar deer, langurs, and various bird species.

Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy nature trails and birdwatching opportunities. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike who are interested in exploring a natural habitat and observing wildlife.

Table of Contents Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Location Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary History Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Area Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Flora Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna Mammals Birds Reptile Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary comprises of Arabithittu State Forest located in Hunsur Taluk of Mysore district of Karnataka State, India.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is the Mysore Airport (also known as the Mandakalli Airport). It's located in Mandakalli, Mysore, and is approximately 15-20 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is the Mysore Junction Railway Station, commonly known as Mysore Railway Station. It's situated in Mysore city and is around 8-10 kilometers from the sanctuary.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary History

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary has an interesting history associated with its establishment and development:

Game Reserves: Arabithittu area was initially designated as "Arabithittu Game Reserves" through a government notification dated June 5, 1974. This early designation indicates the government's interest in conserving the area for wildlife and possibly recreational purposes.

Establishment: Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary was established with the primary objective of conserving avian species and their habitats. It was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary on June 13, 1985, under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The sanctuary was created to protect the diverse bird population found in the area.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 13.5 square kilometers (5.2 square miles). This relatively small sanctuary is located near Mysore, Karnataka, India, and is known for its diverse avian population, particularly migratory birds.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The sanctuary mainly consists of dry deciduous forest, southern tropical dry thorn and riverine forests.

Here's a brief overview of each species:

Terminalia arjuna: Commonly known as Arjuna, this tree is important in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Its bark is used for its potential cardiovascular benefits. The species is often found along riverbanks.

Jambul (Syzygium cumini): Also known as Java plum or Indian blackberry, the jambul tree bears edible fruit that is commonly consumed in India. The fruit is known for its potential health benefits.

Albizia amara: Also called the Indian siris, this tree species is known for its hardwood, which is used for various purposes including construction and furniture.

Feronia sp.: Feronia is a genus of trees commonly referred to as wood apples. The fruit of some species is used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Tamarindus indica: Tamarind trees produce the tamarind fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary applications. The fruit has a tangy flavor and is often used in chutneys, sauces, and beverages.

Mangifera indica: The mango tree is one of the most well-known fruit trees in India and many other tropical regions. Mangoes are beloved for their sweet and juicy fruit.

Hardwickia binata: Also known as Anjan, this tree is native to India. Its wood is used for construction, and it's also valued for its ecological significance.

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a variety of wildlife species, making it an important habitat for both resident and migratory animals. Here are some of the notable fauna species that can be found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Leopard
• Elephant
• Wild Boar
• Dhole
• Spotted Deer
• Barking Deer
• Sambar
• Four-horned Antelope
• Black-naped Hare
• Chevrotain
• Common Langur
• Bonnet Macaque
• Indian Porcupine
• Common Mangoose
• Fox

Birds:

• Whiterumped Vulture
• Indian Vulture
• Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon
• Greater Spotted Eagle
• White-naped Tit
• Yellow-throated Bulbul
• Peafowl
• Partridges
• Mynas
• Black Drongo

Reptiles:

• Western Ghats Gliding Lizard
• King Cobra
• Bamboo Pit Viper
• Rat Snakes

Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which district is Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mysore district of the state of Karnataka, India. It's situated near the city of Mysore, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists interested in exploring its flora and fauna. 

Q. What is the area of Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary?

A. Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 13.5 square kilometers (5.2 square miles).

Q. What is Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?

A. Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily famous for its diverse avian population, particularly as a habitat for migratory birds. Some of the key features that make it famous include:

(i) Migratory Birds: The sanctuary serves as a temporary home for a wide variety of migratory bird species during the winter months. These birds travel from various parts of the world to escape the colder climates in their native regions. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts are drawn to the sanctuary to observe and study these migratory visitors.

(ii) Bird Watching: Arabithittu Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular destination for birdwatchers. The opportunity to spot both resident and migratory birds in their natural habitat attracts bird enthusiasts from across the region. It's a great place to observe different bird species, their behaviors, and interactions.

(iii) Conservation Efforts: The sanctuary plays a role in the conservation of avian species and their habitats. It serves as a protected area for various bird species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region. This focus on conservation is important for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

(iv) Ecotourism: The sanctuary's popularity among birdwatchers and nature lovers has contributed to the growth of ecotourism in the area. This, in turn, can have positive impacts on local economies and promote awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.

(v) Flora and Fauna Diversity: While birds are a significant attraction, the sanctuary also supports a variety of other flora and fauna species, including mammals, reptiles, and insects. The mix of different habitats within the sanctuary contributes to its overall biodiversity.