Purna Wildlife Sanctuary

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Gujarat, India. The sanctuary is spread over an undulating terrain with rolling hills, plateaus, and small valleys. The area is drained by the Purna River and other rivers and rivulets. 

The human population in the sanctuary area is predominantly tribal, represented by groups such as Bhils, Warlis, Konkanas, Dubdas, and Kolchas. The forests support a rich tribal culture in various aspects of life.

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

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the predominantly tribal district of Dangs in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated at the western and northern limits of the Western Ghats.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

the nearest airport to Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is Surat, which is approximately 130 kilometers away.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station is Vyara (20 km).

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary History

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary has a relatively recent history. It was declared a wildlife sanctuary on July 24, 1990. The sanctuary was established to protect and conserve the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including its rich forest cover, wildlife species, and unique ecosystems.

The sanctuary's history involves efforts by conservationists, environmentalists, and government authorities to recognize the ecological significance of the area and establish it as a protected zone. Over the years, the sanctuary has likely seen various initiatives aimed at conservation, habitat management, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving the local biodiversity.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 160.84 square kilometers. The sanctuary's landscape encompasses undulating terrain with rolling hills, plateaus, small valleys, rivers, and forests, creating a diverse and ecologically important habitat for various plant and animal species. The sanctuary's substantial size contributes to its role in conserving biodiversity and supporting a range of wildlife.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary River

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is drained by the Purna River, which gives the sanctuary its name. The Purna River flows through the sanctuary area and is one of the prominent water bodies within its boundaries. 

Additionally, there are other rivers and rivulets in the sanctuary, contributing to the overall water network and ecosystem of the region. The presence of these water bodies is essential for the diverse plant and animal life that inhabit the sanctuary, providing a water source and supporting the overall ecological balance.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Tribe

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Dangs district of Gujarat, India, and is home to various tribal communities. Some of the tribal communities that inhabit or are associated with the sanctuary area include:

(1) Bhils:

Bhils are one of the largest tribal communities in India and are known for their distinct culture, traditions, and way of life. They often practice agriculture, hunting, and gathering.

(2) Warlis:

The Warli tribe is known for their unique style of art, characterized by simple geometric patterns and depictions of daily life. They are primarily found in the Western Ghats region, including parts of Gujarat.

(3) Konkanas:

The Konkana tribal community is also found in the Western Ghats region, including Gujarat. They have their own distinct cultural practices and traditions.

(4) Dubdas:

The Dubdas are another tribal group found in the region, known for their own cultural heritage and way of life.

(5) Kolchas:

The Kolcha tribe is indigenous to the Dangs district and is part of the larger Adivasi community in India.

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is characterized by a diverse range of flora that thrives in its varied ecosystems, which include hills, plateaus, valleys, and riverbanks. Some of the notable plant species found in the sanctuary include:

• Teak
• Bamboo
• Khair
• Sadad
• Timru
• Haldu
• Sisham (Rosewood)
• Salai
• Kalam
• Tanachh
• Karanj
• Chopadi Bondara

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Purna Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

What animals are in the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary?

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various mammal, bird, and reptile species. Here is a list of some of the notable wildlife found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Leopard
• Rhesus Macaque
• Bonnet Macaque
• Common Mongoose
• Indian Civet Cat
• Indian Porcupine
• Four-Horned Antelope
• Barking Deer
• Sambar Deer
• Chital (Spotted Deer)
• Hyena
• Jungle Cat
• Flying Squirrel

Birds:

• Common Grey Hornbill
• Grey Junglefowl
• Barbets
• Woodpeckers
• Shrikes
• Cloropsis (Leafbirds)
• Bee-eaters
• Flycatchers
• Various Raptors

Reptiles:

• Python
• Lizards

Purna Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which district of Gujarat is the Purna Sanctuary located?

A. The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Dangs district of Gujarat, India.

Q. What is Purna Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?

A. The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity, lush green landscapes, and diverse ecosystems. Here are some of the key aspects for which the sanctuary is known:

(i) Diverse Flora and Fauna: The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered ones. Its varied ecosystems, ranging from hills to valleys, support a diverse range of flora and fauna.

(ii) Tribal Culture: The sanctuary is situated in an area with a significant tribal population, including communities like Bhils, Warlis, and others. These tribal communities have unique cultural practices and traditions that are closely tied to the land and its resources.

(iii) Scenic Landscapes: The undulating terrain of the sanctuary, with rolling hills, plateaus, and river valleys, creates scenic landscapes that are visually appealing.

(iv) Important Water Bodies: The Purna River, along with other rivers and rivulets, flows through the sanctuary, contributing to its ecological balance and providing water for the diverse species that inhabit the area.