The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (WWS), situated in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is witnessing the onset of annual migration from wildlife sanctuaries located in the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. This seasonal event is significant because WWS not only offers a refuge for a diverse range of species but also plays a key role in maintaining the ecological and geographical continuity with other protected areas. This sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which includes the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park, Mukurthi National Park and Silent Valley.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: A Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
Established as a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, WWS shares its borders with Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka to its north-east and Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu to its south-east. This geographic positioning of WWS makes it absolutely crucial to maintain biodiversity and promote conservation efforts across these regions.
Ecological and Geographic Continuity
As various species of wild animals start their seasonal journey to Wayanad, it once again highlights the Sanctuary’s key role in promoting ecological continuity. The WWS significantly contributes to the region’s biodiversity by serving as a crucial link between several protected areas. This migratory pattern also ensures the maintenance of healthy gene flow amongst various animal populations, thereby contributing to their sustainable survival.
Home to the World’s Largest Recorded Population of Asiatic Elephants
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its outstanding elephant population, holding the record for the world’s largest recorded population of Asiatic elephants. The Sanctuary offers a safe haven for these majestic creatures, providing them with natural habitat for their nourishment and propagation.
Drainage System in Wayanad District
Almost the entirety of Wayanad district, including WWS, falls under the drainage basin handled by the Kabini River and its three tributaries – Panamaram, Mananthavady, and Kalindy rivers. The Kabini River, which is one of the three east-flowing rivers of Kerala, bears significance as it’s a major tributary of the Kaveri River.
| Facts about Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary |
|---|
| Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve |
| Shares borders with protected areas across two states |
| Maintains ecological continuity amongst various protected areas |
| Houses world’s largest recorded population of Asiatic elephants |
| Falls under the major drainage basin of Kabini River and its three tributaries |
Conclusion
In sum, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary not only provides an essential refuge for a wide variety of species during their annual migration but also plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance across a significant geographical area. As it supports the thriving population of the Asiatic Elephants and handles a major part of the region’s drainage system, Wayanad continues to be an indispensable asset to India’s biodiversity and environmental management.
