Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary UPSC

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the sate of Mizoram, India. The sanctuary is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers.


The habitat primarily consists of subtropical semi-evergreen forests, with bamboo being the most common species of flora in the region.


The sanctuary is home to various wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, binturongs, slow lorises, and a variety of avifauna like the wreathed hornbill and Mrs. Hume’s pheasant.


The best time to visit Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is between October and March.


Table of Contents

  • Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Location
  • Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary History
  • Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Area
  • Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Flora
  • Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
    • Mammals
    • Birds
    • Reptile


Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Location

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Lunglei District of Mizoram, India. It is situated near Pangzawl in the Aizawl-Lunglei road in the Indian state of Mizoram. 


It is situated approximately 160 kilometers from the city of Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram. This sanctuary is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a notable destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in the region.


Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is the Lengpui Airport, which is located near Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram. It is located at a distance of 193.6 km via Lunglei-Thenzawl Rd.


Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Nearest Railway Station:

As for the nearest railway station, if you prefer to travel by train, you can reach Silchar Railway Station in the neighboring state of Assam. From Silchar, you would need to continue your journey to Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary by road, which is approximately 461 kilometers away.




Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary History

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary in Mizoram, India, has a rich history, both in terms of its natural and cultural significance.


Natural History: The sanctuary's history dates back to its natural formation, as it has been a refuge for wildlife and a center of biodiversity for ages. Over time, the sanctuary has become a habitat for various wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, Himalayan black bears, binturongs, sambar deer, hoolock gibbons, slow lorises, and a variety of bird species.


Cultural History: Khawnglung is also known for its cultural and historical significance. It was the site of one of the bloodiest massacres during the days of internecine feuds between the Sailo chiefs in the middle of the nineteenth century. These feuds were a part of the complex history of the region.


Conservation History: Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2000 to protect its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of flora and fauna, particularly primates and birds.




Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Area

The Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 35.75 square kilometers (13.8 square miles). This sanctuary is spread across this relatively small but ecologically important area, which is known for its subtropical semi-evergreen forests, diverse flora, and a variety of wildlife species. 




Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Flora

The Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora, including both indigenous and endemic species. Here are some of the notable flora found within the sanctuary:


Bamboo (Bambusa spp.): Bamboo is one of the most common and dominant plant species in the sanctuary. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem and provides habitat and food for various wildlife species.


Ligustrum robustum: This evergreen shrub is native to the region and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the sanctuary.


Macaranga denticulata: This tree species is often found in subtropical forests and is a part of the sanctuary's vegetation.


Ficus semicordata: Ficus species, including Ficus semicordata, are commonly found in the subtropical forests of the region.


Actephila excelsa: This is another native tree species that can be found in the sanctuary.


Strobilanthes capitata: Strobilanthes species are known for their vibrant flowers, and Strobilanthes capitata is one of them.


Aeschynanthus parasiticus: This is a unique plant species that is known for its parasitic nature.


Torenia vagans: Torenia vagans, commonly known as the wishbone flower, is a flowering plant found in the sanctuary.


Hoya lobii: Hoyas are known for their distinctive waxy flowers, and Hoya lobii is one of the species found in the region.


Hedyotis scandens: This is a climbing or creeping plant commonly found in the sanctuary.


Mussaenda roxburghii: Mussaenda species are known for their colorful and showy flowers.


Melastoma malabathricum: This is a flowering plant that adds to the floral diversity of the sanctuary.


Mikania micrantha: This is a species of vine that is found in the region.


Begonia roxburghii: Begonias are known for their ornamental value, and Begonia roxburghii is a species native to the area.




Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna (Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary Animals)

The Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its diverse and rich fauna. It is home to a variety of wildlife species. Here are some of the notable fauna found within the sanctuary:


Mammals:

  • Tiger
  • Leopard
  • Himalayan Black Bear
  • Binturong
  • Sambar
  • Barking Deer
  • Serow
  • Wild Boar
  • Hoolock Gibbon
  • Slow Loris


Birds:

  • Great Indian Hornbill
  • Wreathed Hornbill
  • Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant
  • Khaleej Pheasant
  • White-cheeked Partridge
  • Mountain Bamboo Partridge


Reptiles:

  • Lizards
  • Snakes
  • Tortoise

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary

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