Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is becoming increasingly known for hosting migratory birds, with around 35 different bird species visiting the area for breeding.

The sanctuary is famous for its mountain peaks, with Sivagiri Mala being the highest at 1,748 meters above sea level. It has a total of 29 mountain peaks, attracting trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

The sanctuary comprises different forest types, including dry deciduous forest, semi-evergreen forest, moist mixed deciduous forest, and grassland, all contributing to its ecological diversity.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary plays a significant role in conserving the biodiversity of the Western Ghats region and protecting the natural habitat of various wildlife species.

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

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is situated near the village of Koonthankulam in Tirunelveli District's Nanguneri Taluk. The sanctuary is approximately 38 kilometers from Tirunelveli city.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is Madurai Airport.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is Tirunelveli Railway Station.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary History

Here is some general information about its history and establishment:

Date of Notification: Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary was officially notified as a wildlife sanctuary on 11th August 2014. This notification marked its establishment as a protected area for the conservation of biodiversity and wildlife.

Protected Status: The sanctuary earned the title of 'wildlife sanctuary' in 2015, signifying its importance in preserving the natural habitat and wildlife within its boundaries.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Area

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 35,673.33 hectares (356.73 square kilometers). This significant expanse of land in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, India, provides a diverse and extensive habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, including mountain ranges, forests, and grasslands.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Hills

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its picturesque hills and mountain ranges, which add to the sanctuary's natural beauty and biodiversity. Here are some of the prominent hills within the sanctuary:

(1) Sivagiri Mala:

Sivagiri Mala is considered the highest peak within Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary, standing at an elevation of 1,748 meters (approximately 5,735 feet) above sea level. It is the most renowned hill in the sanctuary and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

(2) Totti Malai:

Totti Malai is another notable hill within the sanctuary, with an elevation of approximately 381 meters.

(3) Aruitalai Mottai:

Aruitalai Mottai is a hill in the sanctuary with an elevation of around 231 meters.

(4) Kalli Mala:

Kalli Mala is a hill within the sanctuary, standing at an elevation of approximately 88 meters.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora, which includes a wide range of plant species found in the Western Ghats biographic zone. Here are some of the notable flora species that can be found in the sanctuary:

Hopea utilis: This is a hardwood tree species native to the Western Ghats region. It is valued for its timber.

Bentinckia condappana: Bentinckia condappana is a palm species native to the Western Ghats. It is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves.

Gluta travancorica: This is a tree species found in the Western Ghats. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine.

Humboldtia unijuga: Humboldtia unijuga is a tree species commonly found in the Western Ghats. It belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae).

Eugenia singampattiana: Eugenia singampattiana is a plant species belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to the Western Ghats and is known for its aromatic leaves and fruits.

Symplocos macrocarpa: Symplocos macrocarpa is a tree species found in the Western Ghats. It is known for its large fruits and is a part of the Symplocaceae family.

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, India, is home to a diverse range of fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more. Here are some of the notable species of fauna that can be found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

• Leopard
• Nilgiri Langur
• Nilgiri Marten
• Mouse Deer
• Sambar Deer

Birds:

• Malabar Whistling Thrush
• Grey Junglefowl
• Malabar Pied Hornbill
• Great Pied Hornbill
• Sri Lankan Frogmouth
• Nilgiri Wood Pigeon

Reptiles:

• Indian Rock Python
• Rat Snake
• Spectacled Cobra
• Common Indian Monitor Lizard

Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. What is Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?

A. Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for several key features:

(i) Scenic Beauty: The sanctuary is renowned for its picturesque landscape, including majestic mountain ranges, dense forests, and lush greenery. It offers breathtaking views and a serene natural environment, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists.

(ii) Mountain Peaks: Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its numerous mountain peaks, including Sivagiri Mala, which is considered the highest point at 1,748 meters (approximately 5,735 feet) above sea level. These peaks attract trekkers and adventure seekers.

(iii) Biodiversity: The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species. It plays a vital role in conserving the biodiversity of the Western Ghats region in Tamil Nadu.

(iv) Migratory Birds: Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary is gaining recognition as a favorite destination for migratory birds. Around 35 different bird species, including water birds, visit the sanctuary for breeding and raising their young, making it a significant site for birdwatching and ornithology.

(v) Conservation: The sanctuary is designated as a protected area, contributing to the conservation of various wildlife species, including the Nilgiri Langur, Nilgiri Marten, Leopard, and others. It also helps protect the natural habitat of these species.