The recent news reports highlight an unfortunate event at the Umed Paoni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagpur, Maharashtra where a tigress and her two cubs were found dead. As a wildlife sanctuary, it plays a significant role in preserving various species of animals, including tigers, and its conservation efforts are noteworthy.
About Umed Paoni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary
The Umed Paoni Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary is essentially a biodiversity hotspot nestled in the heart of Maharashtra, specifically in Nagpur. It shares a connection with the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve through a forest along the Wainganga river. This river is a tributary of Godavari, one of the major rivers in the country.
The sanctuary has successfully become a breeding ground for resident tigers. Its thriving fauna also includes herds of Gaur, packs of wild dogs, and an array of rare animals such as flying squirrels, honey badgers, and pangolins. The unfortunate death of the tigress and her cubs has raised several concerns about the safety and preservation of wildlife in these sanctuaries.
Other Protected Sites of Maharashtra
Maharashtra is home to several other wildlife sanctuaries and national parks which aim at the conservation and protection of diverse species. Here are some prominent protected sites:
1.
Tadoba National Park
Tadoba National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Maharashtra known for its tiger reserve.
2.
Gugamal National Park
Gugamal National Park, located in the Amravati district, is known for its rich flora and fauna.
3.
Pench National Park
Pench National Park, shared between Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, is named after the Pench River and is especially famous for its tiger reserve.
4.
Navegaon National Park
Located in the Gondia district of Maharashtra, Navegaon National Park is home to several species of birds, making it a favorite among bird watchers.
5.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Situated in Mumbai, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is a bustling green oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
6.
Melghat Tiger Reserve
Situated in Amravati, Melghat Tiger Reserve is particularly known for the preservation of Indian Tigers.
7.
Sahyadri Tiger Reserve
This reserve is situated in the Sahyadri Ranges and aims to conserve the Royal Bengal Tigers.
8.
Bor Tiger Reserve
Located near Hingni in Wardha District, Bor Tiger Reserve is known for its significant number of tigers.
All these protected wildlife zones in Maharashtra play a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the region. They provide safe habitats for various animal species and contribute immensely to conservation efforts.
