Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Punjab. The sanctuary covers an area of 2.64 square kilometers (264.40 hectares) of government land.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife species, including Blue Bull, Jungle Cat, Jackal, Rhesus Monkey, Peafowl, Black and Grey Partridges, Hare, and Spotted Owlet.

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

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is located 3 kilometers from Sangrur city on Sohian Road in District Sangrur of Punjab, India.

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is Ludhiana Airport (Sahnewal Airport), which is approximately 85 kilometers away.

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is Sangrur Railway Station, situated in the city of Sangrur itself, just about 3 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary, situated near Sangrur in Punjab, India, has a history rooted in its establishment and conservation efforts. Here's an overview of its history:

Establishment: The Bir Aishwan area was declared a wildlife sanctuary under the Preservation of Faunae of Patiala Rules, 1896, through a notification (No. F-150/50) issued by the Patiala and East Punjab States Union (PEPSU) Government on February 28, 1952.

Conservation: The sanctuary was established with the aim of conserving and protecting the local wildlife and their habitats. It has played a crucial role in safeguarding various animal and plant species indigenous to the region.

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 2.64 square kilometers (264.40 hectares).

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by its flora, which consists of various plant species typical of the Northern Tropical Dry Mixed Deciduous forest type. Here are some of the prominent flora species that can be found in the sanctuary:

Kikkar (Acacia nilotica): Also known as the Indian gum arabic tree, Kikkar is a common tree species in the sanctuary's ecosystem. It provides shade and serves as a habitat for various wildlife.

Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus trees are known for their fast growth and adaptability. They have been introduced to various regions for timber and other purposes.

Phalahi (Acacia modesta): Phalahi is a deciduous tree species found in the sanctuary. It contributes to the diverse flora composition of the area.

Jamun (Syzygium cumini): Jamun, also known as black plum, is a fruit-bearing tree that provides food for wildlife and contributes to the biodiversity of the sanctuary.

Beri (Ziziphus mauritiana): Beri trees produce small edible fruits and play a role in providing sustenance for animals and birds.

Mulberry (Morus spp.): Mulberry trees are known for their leaves, which serve as a food source for certain species of wildlife, particularly silkworms.

Dek (Butea monosperma): Also known as flame of the forest, Dek trees produce bright orange-red flowers and contribute to the visual appeal of the sanctuary.

Mesquite (Prosopis juliflora): Mesquite is a drought-resistant tree species that helps stabilize soil and provides habitat and food for various animals.

Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo): Shisham, or Indian rosewood, is a valuable timber tree that adds to the biodiversity of the sanctuary.

Kahir (Acacia catechu): Kahir trees are known for their heartwood, which is used for various purposes, including traditional medicine.

Arjun (Terminalia arjuna): Arjun trees have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine systems.

Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is known for its various medicinal and therapeutic properties. It is an important tree in the sanctuary's ecosystem.

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of fauna, including mammals, birds, and other wildlife species. Here are some of the notable species that can be found within the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Blue Bull (Nilgai)
• Jungle Cat
• Jackal
• Rhesus Monkey
• Indian Hare

Birds:

• Peafowl (Indian Peafowl)
• Spotted Owlet
• Black Partridge
• Grey Partridge
• Rose-Ringed Parakeet

Reptiles:

• Various snake specie
• Lizards

Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary located?

A. The Bir Aishwan Wildlife Sanctuary is located 3 kilometers from Sangrur city on Sohian Road in District Sangrur, Punjab, India.