Kitam Bird Sanctuary UPSC
Kitam Bird Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the state of Sikkim, India. It is situated in the East Himalayan biogeographic zone. The sanctuary covers an altitudinal range between 1,200 and 3,200 feet.
The sanctuary is characterized by dense vegetation, including Pine and Sal forests, as well as native shrubs. It falls within the tropical moist deciduous forest and tropical secondary scrub habitat types.
The sanctuary is rich in avian biodiversity with over 200 species of birds, including Indian Peafowl, Yellow-vented Warblers, Grey-crowned Prinias, Rufous-necked Hornbills, and others. The sanctuary also supports numerous species of butterflies.
The best time to visit Kitam Bird Sanctuary is during autumn and winter, specifically from October to late November. This period is ideal for birdwatching, as many migratory bird species visit the sanctuary during this time.
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Kitam Bird Sanctuary Location
The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is located near Namchi in the South Sikkim District of Sikkim, India. It is situated approximately 19 kilometers from Namchi. Namchi is the district headquarters of the South Sikkim district.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Kitam Bird Sanctuary is Bagdogra Airport, located in the nearby town of Bagdogra in the state of West Bengal, India. Bagdogra Airport is approximately 70 to 80 kilometers away from Kitam Bird Sanctuary, and it serves as the primary airport for the region.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:
The nearest railway station to Kitam Bird Sanctuary is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. It is situated in the city of Siliguri, West Bengal, which is a major transportation hub in the region. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is at a distance of around 80 to 90 kilometers from Kitam Bird Sanctuary.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary History
Establishment: The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is a relatively new addition to the protected wildlife areas of Sikkim, India. It was officially notified as a sanctuary on February 3, 2005, when the Government of Sikkim recognized its ecological importance and the need to conserve its biodiversity, especially its avian species.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary Area
The Kitam Bird Sanctuary in Sikkim covers an area of approximately 6 square kilometers. This sanctuary, though relatively small in size, is significant for its rich biodiversity, particularly its diverse bird species and lush forested habitats.
It offers a compact yet diverse natural environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the region's avian and wildlife diversity.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary Flora
The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is home to a variety of flora due to its diverse forested habitats. While the specific plant species can vary throughout the sanctuary, here are some of the common types of flora you might encounter within the sanctuary's boundaries:
(1) Pine Forests:
Pine trees are often found in the sanctuary, and they contribute to the overall forest cover. These evergreen conifers provide habitat for various bird species and wildlife.
(2) Sal Forests:
Sal trees (Shorea robusta) are a prominent feature of the sanctuary. Sal forests are known for their tall, straight trunks and dense canopies. They are important in providing shelter and food for many wildlife species.
(3) Chir Forests:
Chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) is another type of pine tree that can be found in the sanctuary. These trees are valuable for their timber and are part of the sanctuary's ecosystem.
(4) Shrubs and Understory Vegetation:
In addition to the dominant tree species, you'll find various shrubs, grasses, and understory vegetation in the sanctuary. These provide essential cover and forage for wildlife.
(5) Native Flora:
The sanctuary also host a variety of native plant species, including flowering plants, ferns, and mosses. These contribute to the overall biodiversity of the area.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Kitam Bird Sanctuary Animals)
The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is known for its rich and diverse fauna, including a variety of bird species and other wildlife. Here are some of the notable fauna found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Barking Deer
- Himalayan Crest-less Porcupine
- Wild Boar
- Assamese Macaque
- Masked Palm Civet
- Himalayan Crest-less Porcupine
- Small Indian Civet
- Small Indian Mongoose
Birds:
- Oriental White-eye
- Kalij
- Indian Peafowl
- Red Junglefowl
- Scarlet Minivet
- Green Magpie
- Himalayan Flameback
Reptiles:
- Snakes
- Lizards
- Turtles and Tortoises
Kitam Bird Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. In which district Kitam Bird Sanctuary is located?
A. The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is located in the South Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim. South Sikkim is known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, hills, and wildlife habitats like the Kitam Bird Sanctuary.
Q. What is Kitam Bird Sanctuary famous for?
A. Kitam Bird Sanctuary in Sikkim, India, is famous for several reasons:
(i) Avian Biodiversity: The sanctuary is renowned for its rich and diverse birdlife. It is home to over 200 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species. Birdwatchers and ornithologists visit the sanctuary to observe and study this diverse avian population.
(ii) Migratory Birds: Kitam Bird Sanctuary is especially well-known for being a habitat for migratory birds. During the autumn and winter months (October to late November), many migratory bird species visit the sanctuary, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching during this season.
(iii) Natural Beauty: The sanctuary is situated in the picturesque landscape of Sikkim's hills and forests. Its lush vegetation, including Pine and Sal forests, adds to the overall natural beauty of the region, attracting nature enthusiasts and photographers.
(iv) Wildlife Conservation: Kitam Bird Sanctuary is a protected area, and it plays a crucial role in the conservation of not only bird species but also other wildlife. It provides a safe haven for various animals and contributes to the conservation efforts in the Eastern Himalayan region.
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