Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Haryana, India. The sanctuary is situated in the Shivalik hills, a range of foothills of the Himalayas. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna and serves as a habitat for various wildlife species.

The sanctuary is home to a variety of mammals, including nilgai (blue bull), wild boar, muntjac (barking deer), rhesus macaque, sambar deer, common langur, chital (spotted deer), Indian leopard, hyena, jungle cat, and more. It also hosts numerous bird species and reptiles.

The sanctuary houses the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC), which focuses on the conservation and breeding of vulture species. This effort is vital for the survival of these scavengers.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary's proximity to urban centers like Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Pinjore makes it accessible for visitors interested in nature and wildlife experiences.

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

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Panchkula district of Haryana state, India. It is located in the Shivalik hills of Haryana, specifically in the foothills of the Himalayas. 

The sanctuary is approximately 8 kilometers away from Pinjore on the Pinjor-Mallah Road, 10 kilometers from Kalka, 20 kilometers from Panchkula, 30 kilometers from Chandigarh, and 20 kilometers from Morni Hill station. 

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is the Chandigarh International Airport, which is located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) away. From the airport, you can travel by road to reach the sanctuary.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is the Kalka Railway Station, located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away. Kalka is well-connected to various major cities and towns in India. From Kalka Railway Station, you can continue your journey to the sanctuary by road.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary History

The history of Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary in the Panchkula district of Haryana, India, dates back to its establishment as a protected area and its subsequent conservation efforts. Here's an overview of its history:

Establishment and Notification: Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary by the Forests Department, Government of Haryana, on May 29, 1987. This formal designation marked the beginning of its protected status.

Eco-sensitive Zone Declaration: In 2009, the Government of India declared Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary as an Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ). This designation aimed to prevent development within a 5-kilometer radius of the sanctuary, further contributing to its conservation efforts and maintaining its natural environment.

Vulture Conservation: The sanctuary is notable for housing the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC), which is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of vulture species. Vultures are critically endangered and face numerous threats, including habitat loss and poisoning from feeding on carcasses containing veterinary drugs. The center's efforts contribute to the recovery of these important scavengers.

Wildlife Conservation and Research: Over the years, Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary has played a role in wildlife conservation, research, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats. It provides a safe haven for various species of animals and plants.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 767.30 hectares (1,896) acres. This area is dedicated to the conservation of diverse flora and fauna within the sanctuary's boundaries. 

The sanctuary's relatively compact size contributes to its ability to provide a protected habitat for various wildlife species, making it an important conservation area in the Panchkula district of Haryana, India.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Shivalik hills of the Panchkula district in Haryana, India. The Shivalik hills are a range of foothills of the Himalayas and extend across several states in northern India. These hills are characterized by their rolling terrain, lush greenery, and rich biodiversity.

The sanctuary's location in the Shivalik hills adds to its natural beauty and ecological significance. The hilly terrain provides varied habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The elevation and topography of the hills contribute to the sanctuary's appeal as a protected area for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, including various plant species that contribute to the ecosystem's richness and provide habitat for the sanctuary's wildlife. 

The sanctuary features a mix of deciduous tree species that shed their leaves during certain times of the year. These forests are important habitats for various wildlife.

Some of the notable flora found within the sanctuary include:

• Teak
• Eucalyptus
• Khair

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Which animals are found in Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary?

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse array of wildlife species, making it an important conservation area in the Panchkula district of Haryana, India. Some of the notable fauna found within the sanctuary include:

Mammals:

• Nilgai (Blue Bull)
• Wild Boar
• Sambar Deer
• Chital (Spotted Deer)
• Muntjac (Barking Deer)
• Indian Leopard
• Hyena
• Jungle Cat
• Indian Fox
• Striped Hyena
• Indian Jackal
• Indian Gray Mongoose
• Porcupine
• Indian Hare
• Common Langur (Hanuman Langur)
• Rhesus Macaque

Birds:

• Grey Partridge
• Red Junglefowl
• Black Partridge
• Vultures
• Eagles
• Hawks
• Falcons
• Peafowl
• Various species of Pheasants
• Kingfishers
• Woodpeckers
• Orioles
• Bulbuls
• Minivets

Reptiles:

• Indian Rock Python
• Common Rat Snake
• Cobra
• Lizards
• Skinks

Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary located?

A. Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Panchkula district of the state of Haryana, India. It is situated in the Shivalik hills of the region. 

Q. Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for?

A. Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several reasons:

(i) Diverse Flora and Fauna: The sanctuary is renowned for its rich biodiversity, housing a variety of plant and animal species native to the Shivalik hills of Haryana. It provides a habitat for a range of mammals, birds, and reptiles.

(ii) Vulture Conservation: The sanctuary is home to the Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre (JCBC), which focuses on the conservation and breeding of vulture species. Vultures play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by scavenging on carrion.

(iii) Eco-sensitive Zone: Designated as an Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ) by the Government of India, the sanctuary is recognized for its importance in maintaining the natural environment and preventing development within a specified radius.

(iv) Location and Scenic Beauty: Situated in the picturesque Shivalik hills, the sanctuary offers visitors stunning views and a serene natural environment, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.

(v) Proximity to Urban Centers: The sanctuary's relative proximity to cities like Chandigarh and Panchkula makes it accessible to people interested in experiencing nature and wildlife without traveling great distances.