Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is renowned for its dry deciduous thorny forest ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to experience and observe various wildlife species in their natural habitat. 

Notably, the sanctuary is located near the Chambal River, which is known for its clean water and the presence of rare river dolphins and crocodiles. This proximity to the river adds to the ecological significance of the sanctuary.

Historically, the Kesar Bagh Palace within the sanctuary was used by royal families during hunting expeditions. It's a place where visitors can appreciate the beauty of the dry deciduous forest, spot charismatic animals, and connect with nature.

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

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Location

The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Dholpur district of Rajasthan, India. Here are the transportation options to reach the sanctuary:

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

Agra Airport (also known as Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport) is the nearest major airport to the Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, which is not far from the sanctuary. From the airport, you can travel to the sanctuary by road.

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

Dholpur Junction is the nearest railway station to the Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located in Dholpur, Rajasthan. From the railway station, you can reach the sanctuary using local transportation.

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary has historical significance due to its association with the royal families of the region. Here is some historical information about the sanctuary:

Royal Hunting Grounds: The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary was historically used as a hunting ground by the royal families of the region. The Kesar Bagh Palace within the sanctuary was used by the royals during their hunting expeditions. It served as a retreat and a base for their hunting activities.

Wildlife Conservation: Over time, as the importance of wildlife conservation became more recognized, areas that were once used for hunting were often transformed into protected areas to conserve the biodiversity and habitats. The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary was likely established to protect the natural ecosystem and wildlife present within its boundaries.

Designation as a Wildlife Sanctuary: The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary was accorded the status of a wildlife sanctuary in 1955. This formal recognition and protection status aimed to preserve the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the area.

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 14.76 square kilometers (or about 5.7 square miles). 

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary River

Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Chambal River, which is known for its clean water and diverse aquatic life, including rare river dolphins and crocodiles. This proximity to the Chambal River likely enhances the biodiversity and ecological significance of the sanctuary by providing a water source and habitat for various species.

The presence of the Chambal River and its unique aquatic inhabitants adds to the appeal and conservation value of the Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is part of the dry deciduous thorny forest ecosystem. These plants are well-suited to arid and semi-arid environments and play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of the sanctuary. 

Here's a bit more information about each of these species:

Anogeissus pendula: Also known as the Chakwa tree, Anogeissus pendula is a deciduous tree with characteristic white or pale gray bark. It's often found in dry regions and provides food and shelter for various wildlife.

Balanites aegyptiaca: Commonly referred to as the Desert Date or Soapberry tree, Balanites aegyptiaca produces edible fruits and its seeds are used to extract oil. The tree is known for its hardiness and adaptation to arid conditions.

Butea monosperma: Known as the Flame of the Forest, Butea monosperma is famous for its striking red or orange flowers, which bloom seasonally. It's an important tree culturally and ecologically, providing nectar for pollinators and food for various animals.

Acacia catechu: Also called Khair or Cutch tree, Acacia catechu produces a gum with various applications. Its wood is used for various purposes, and the tree supports wildlife by providing food and shelter.

Acacia leucophloea: Commonly known as the White Bark Acacia, this tree is recognizable by its distinctive pale white bark. It's well-suited to arid environments and provides fodder and shade for animals.

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of fauna, including a range of animal species that have adapted to the dry deciduous thorny forest ecosystem. Here are some examples of the wildlife you might encounter in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Sloth Bear
• Striped Hyaena
• Golden Jackal
• Jungle Cat
• Greater False Vampire Bat
• Wild Boar
• Spotted Deer
• Civets

Birds:

• White-breasted Water Hen
• Ringed Plover
• Purple Heron
• Pintail
• Shoveller
• Tufted Duck
• Common Teal
• Garganey Teal

Reptiles:

• Indian Python
• Monitor Lizard
• Cobra

Kesarbagh Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. Where is Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary?/Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary in which district?

A. The Kesar Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Dholpur district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is situated in the Dholpur district, which is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.